To whom should you report suspicions of child abuse or neglect?

Reporting suspicions of child abuse or neglect to the police is appropriate in many situations, particularly when the safety and immediate protection of the child require intervention from law enforcement. Police are trained to handle situations involving potential criminal activity, including abuse and neglect, and can take swift action to ensure the child's safety. Additionally, law enforcement can work in conjunction with social services to provide a comprehensive response to the concerns raised.

In some circumstances, it may also be necessary to report to social services, as they handle cases of child welfare, but contacting the police is often the first step, especially in scenarios where immediate threats are present. Reporting to the child's family is not advisable, as it may compromise the investigation and potentially put the child at further risk. Local schools can also be a resource in certain cases, but they are typically not the primary point of reporting concerns regarding abuse or neglect.