Reports of abuse and neglect of children under the age of 18 are investigated with the goal of protecting children from physical, mental and medical neglect, and from sexual abuse and exploitation.  Services are also provided to prevent and alleviate family crises. Child Protective Services, a federally mandated program, accepts reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. Allegations of Child Abuse/Neglect must meet four criteria: 

• Involve children under the age of 18.

• Involve children who reside in the city of Norfolk.

• Information reported has to address conditions that allow the agency to accept the allegation as a valid complaint, i.e. physical abuse.

• The abuse/neglect must involve a caregiver for the child.

Child Protective Services are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To report suspected incidents of child abuse or neglect in Norfolk, call
the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 664-6022 OR 1-800-552-7096 toll-free after 5:00 p.m., nights, weekends, and holidays.