Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and neglect of vulnerable Oregonians is unfortunately more common than many people realize. DHS works hard to help vulnerable Oregonians be healthy and safe, but the public also plays a key role. DHS depends on people to help by reporting suspected abuse or neglect promptly. These links lead to information on different kinds of abuse and neglect, and how to report it.

If someone is being hurt or is in danger right now, call 911 immediately.

How to report child abuse and neglect

Local law enforcement and community child welfare workers respond to child abuse and neglect reports.

Here is how to report:

1. Use 911 for emergencies - if a child is being hurt or is in danger right now.
2. If the report isn’t an emergency, follow the instructions to report to local authorities. Here are reporting instructions for each county in Oregon:
    
   Child abuse reporting instructions for each county in Oregon

Information about child abuse & neglect

• What is child abuse? - Oregon law defines physical abuse as an injury to a child that is not accidental.
• Information about reporting child abuse & neglect - frequently asked questions about reporting child abuse
• Mandatory reporting - What is mandatory reporting and who must report?
  • Video: The Role of Mandatory Reporters in Child Abuse Casess
• Child abuse and neglect publications and reports
• More...

Domestic violence & intimate partner violence

• Get help now
• Domestic and sexual violence program
• More ...
  

Adults with disabilities

The laws governing abuse of adults with disabilities vary, depending on the type of disability. Here you can learn about the varying types of abuse and how and when to report for

• People with developmental disabilities
• People with mental illness
• Adults with physical disabilities
  

Seniors

• Elder abuse
• Reporting abuse
  • Are you a mandatory reporter? Download the brochure (pdf) 
• Financial fraud/exploitation
• More...