If you suspect that a child or young person is being harmed, you can contact social services to file a concern report or to receive guidance. You do not need to be certain that something is wrong — it is enough that you are worried.

A concern report means that you notify social services that you suspect a child is not doing well. Social services then investigate the child's needs — it is not up to you as the reporter to prove that something is wrong.

As a private individual, you should report if you are worried. You can remain anonymous by not providing your name, protecting your phone number, and hiding your email address. However, keep in mind that anonymity can make the investigation more difficult since social services cannot contact you for more information.

If you work with children in schools, healthcare, or dentistry, you are legally obligated to report suspicions and cannot remain anonymous.

After a report has been made, social services conduct a protective assessment within 24 hours, followed by a preliminary evaluation to determine whether a full investigation should be opened.