We are mandated by the Child and Family Services Act to investigate all reports of the possible abuse or neglect of children or other concerns regarding their care and safety. We receive referrals from many community sources including the schools, police, concerned friends, neighbours or family members.

Professional social workers will conduct a thorough investigation, speaking with all concerned individuals and other community professionals where needed. Their goal is to determine whether or not a child is in need of protection and what action is required to ensure the safety and well being of the children.

Child protection concerns include issues such as physical, emotional or sexual abuse; lack of supervision, inappropriate discipline, neglect or other concerning factors such as family violence, parent or caregivers' mental health; drug, alcohol or other substance abuse problems and environmental factors such as the safety and hygiene of the home.

Intervention might include referrals to other community agencies, ongoing assistance and monitoring by FACS to help make changes that will allow children to remain safely in the home or possibly removing children from the home to foster care or placement with family or friends.

You can report your concerns about the safety of a child 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call your local office of Family and Children=s Services at (905) 937-7731 or 1-888-937-7731. You can report anonymously or ask to remain confidential.

Please Note: Please do NOT attempt to make a report or referral via e mail. Reports should be made by phone or in person.