Child Abuse
Common signs of child abuse
Watch for injuries that don’t match the explanation a child gives, or that can’t be explained at all. These may include:
- Bruises, broken bones or fractures
- Cuts, wounds or severe skin injuries
- Burn marks or unusual patterns of injury
Children experiencing abuse may also withdraw socially or behave differently. There isn’t one single emotional sign, so it’s important to pay attention to changes in behaviour.
Where child abuse can happen
Child abuse doesn’t only happen at home. It can occur:
- At school
- On sports teams
- In community groups and organizations
It often takes one person to step forward and report concerns. Speaking up can make a real difference.
York Regional Police and its community partners investigate all reports thoroughly and without bias, with a focus on finding the truth and supporting victims.
Reporting child abuse
If a child confides in you, listen but don’t press for more details. Report the information to police and allow trained investigators to handle the interview properly.
Make sure the child is safe. Take them to a secure place, such as a police station or hospital, if needed.
Some professionals — including teachers, coaches, police officers and health-care workers — are legally required to report suspected abuse.
If you suspect abuse, act right away:
- Report sexual abuse online at yrp.ca/reportabuse
- Report physical abuse at your local police station
- Call 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7008
- Contact Crime Stoppers
What happens after you report?
Once a report is made, trained investigators will begin a thorough investigation. Depending on the case, this process may take hours, months or, in rare cases, longer. Timelines vary based on factors like:
- Evidence collection and analysis
- Medical reports
- Interviews with victims and witnesses
Partner agencies and support services
Police often work with child welfare organizations during investigations.
These organizations can provide counselling and ongoing support, even after a police investigation ends.
The Children's Aid Society
The Children's Aid Society may open its own investigation and take steps to protect and support the child.
For more information, click here.
Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag child and family services
Dnaagdawenmag binnoojiiyag child and family services seeks to change child welfare by focusing on our original instructions as Indigenous people and restoring wholistic well-being.
For more information, click here.
Jewish Family and Child Service
Jewish Family and Child Service (JF&CS) is a multi-service social agency based in Toronto, Ontario, dedicated to strengthening individuals, children, and families through programs that promote safety, mental wellness, and financial stability.
For more information, click here.
