To report a potential case of child abuse or neglect, immediately contact the county DSS office where the child resides. Intake staff will assist the person making the report and assess the information provided to determine if an investigation is necessary. Local law enforcement offices can also file reports of potential abuse or neglect and ask DSS to investigate the case.
DSS is part of our state’s public safety system. DSS is responsible for protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect by their parents, guardians, caretakers or other relatives. DSS works to keep children and vulnerable adults safe in their own homes with supportive services. If the child or vulnerable adult can’t be made safe at home, Law Enforcement or the courts remove the endangered child or adult, and DSS places the child in kinship or foster care, or helps the vulnerable adult have their needs met safely out of the home.
Any person under the age of 18 who is believed to have been harmed or at risk of harm by their parents, guardians, or other caregivers.
If you need to report a child abuse situation, below is the 24/hr hotline to reach someone:
Report Abuse: (843) 953-9400 (Press 2)
After Hours Reporting: (843) 953-9422
For more information,
CLICK HERE > https://dss.sc.gov/contact/charleston/
To Find the County you are in to report online,
CLICK HERE > https://dss.sc.gov/contact/
For more information on types, signs, who is required to report
CLICK HERE > http://dss.sc.gov/abuseneglect/report-child-abuse-and-neglect/