Child/Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 805-654-3200
Child Welfare Services
If you think a child is endangered, call the 24-hour hotline immediately at 805-654-3200.
Reports will be kept confidential and callers may remain anonymous.
In Case of Emergency, call 911.
Child Protective Services provides safety and protection for children who are experiencing or are at risk of:
- physical abuse
- sexual molestation
- severe neglect, including severe malnutrition, acute untreated medical condition, general neglect, including unsanitary, unsafe or inadequate housing, no food or clothing, or being left alone or without supervision
- not having a parent or guardian, meaning a parent who cannot provide adequate care due to mental illness or substance abuse, a parent who is overwhelmed, or abandonment
- emotional abuse.
If you witness or suspect abuse call the 24-hour hotline at 805-654-3200.
Mandated Reporters
Mandated reporters must 1) first call the hotline to report suspected child abuse or neglect; and 2) must submit a written report (Form BCIA 8572) to HSA-CFS-SCAR@ventura.org.
To learn about what it means to be a Mandated Reporter, including requirements and protections, Mandated Reporter Training is available online, free of charge. (Takes up to 4 hours to complete.)
Important Message
The Human Services Agency does not require COVID-19 testing or ask applicants about their health status in connection with their application for benefits. Similarly, children may only enter foster care if they have experienced or are at risk of abuse or neglect. Children cannot be placed in foster care just because a parent may be ill.
Children & Family Services (CFS)
CFS strives to partner with youth and families to empower them to be active participants in their case planning, as they are experts in what solutions may work best for them. An important aspect of this “teaming” approach is Child and Family Team meetings (CFT). CFT members may include parents, family members or caregivers, as well as people who support the family, social workers or supervisors, and community representatives.
More details about Children & Family Services is available here.
Training to Prevent Child Abuse
SafeCare is a free, evidence-based parent training program designed to help prevent child abuse and neglect by engaging family members through a variety of in-home early intervention services. Learn more about SafeCare.
More information about ensuring the safety of children is available in English and Spanish.
Resources for Parents with Children in the Child Welfare System
