Human Services Agency of San Francisco
Department of Aging & Adult Services * Department of Human Services

Print this page | Text size: small - large

If you suspect that a child in San Francisco is being abused or neglected, call the Family and Children's Services (FCS) Hotline at (800) 856-5553 to make a confidential report anytime, 24 hours per day. Be prepared to provide the child's name, address, approximate age and situation. You do not have to leave your name.

What Happens if Someone Makes a Hotline Report of Suspected Abuse About Your Child?

Anyone can call the child abuse hotline to report suspected abuse or neglect.  Mandated reporters, however, are legally required to report known or suspected child abuse. These include workers in county welfare, doctors, nurses, clergy, school teachers and counselors, employees of day care, etc.

The basic steps following a report to the Family and Children's Services Hotline are described below.

• All Referrals are Screened
• Initial Response is Determined
• If a Referral is Opened
• After the Investigation
• If the Child Remains at Home
• If the Child is Removed from the Home
• Alternatives if the Child Cannot be Safely Reunified with the Parents