How to Report

Mandated Reporting Law and Consequences

State law requires professionals whose work brings them in contact with children to notify DCF if they suspect that a child has been – or is at risk of being – abused or neglected.

All medical personnel, including dentists
Mental health/human service providers
Daycare workers
School personnel
Foster parents
Therapists
Youth workers
Coaches
Police, firefighters, EMTs
Court personnel
Clergy members

Mandated reporters who fail to make a report can be charged with a criminal offense and punished by a fine of not more than $1,000.

Anyone who files a report in good faith is protected by law from civil liability.

Anyone who is concerned that a child is being abused or is at risk of abuse can make a report by calling the Massachusetts Child-At-Risk Hotline at 1-800-792-5900.

Who Must Report Abuse

Some people are required by law to report suspected abuse to DCF. These people are called Mandated Reporters.

Who Can Report Child Abuse

Anyone can report cases of suspected child abuse. Under Massachusetts law, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the state agency that receives all reports of suspected abuse or neglect of children under the age of 18. DCF depends on reports from professionals and other concerned individuals to learn about children who may need protection.

Encouragement

Reporting suspected abuse is critical to protecting children and getting their families help. Although it may be difficult, frightening, or uncomfortable, making a report could save a child’s life.

A report should be made any time a “reasonable suspicion” of abuse exists.

How to File a 51A Report

In any case of suspected or alleged abuse of a child, a call is made to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and a report is filed – this is called a 51A report. Those who work directly with children (mandated reporters) must file an oral report immediately upon suspicion that a child is suffering from abuse or neglect, and submit a written report to DCF within 48 hours of filing the oral report.

For mandated reporters, that written report can be filed through filling out the form and faxing it or through the Virtual Gateway. (https://virtualgateway.mass.gov/VGPortal5)

Form also attached.

When you call the Department of Children and Families (DCF), you will be directed to someone who will help you file a 51A Report.

When a 51A report is filed, it does not necessarily mean law enforcement will be immediately involved. The purpose for the report is so that the right steps can be taken for the child at risk. The staff member answering the call will guide you through a series of questions as well as advise you on what next steps will be taken.

Be prepared to have the following information before your call: (however, if you do not have some of this information, it is okay and you should still file the report)

All identifying information you have about the child and parent/other caregiver (if applicable)
The nature and extent of the suspected abuse or neglect, including any evidence or knowledge of prior injury, abuse, maltreatment or neglect
The identity of the person you believe is responsible for the abuse or neglect (if known)
The circumstances under which you first became aware of the child’s injuries, abuse, maltreatment or neglect
What action, if any, has been taken to treat, shelter or otherwise assist the child
Any other information you believe might be helpful in establishing the cause of the injury and/or person responsible
Your name, address and telephone number

For more info on what happens after a report is filed with DCF:

Learn More