North Carolina laws give the Granville County Department of Social Services responsibility for investigating reports of child abuse, neglect, and dependency. All North Carolina citizens are required to make such reports to Social Services whenever they suspect a child is being maltreated by a parent or caretaker. The identity of anyone who makes a report will be kept confidential.
Child Abuse can take a number of forms:
- physical
- sexual
- emotional
Child Neglect also occurs in many different ways:
- inadequate supervision
- inappropriate discipline
- failure to provide for a child’s basic needs
- the use of illegal substances in the presence of a child
- exposure to domestic violence.
Child Dependency exists when a child does not have a caretaker willing or able to provide care. The definitions of Child Abuse, Neglect, and Dependency are defined by State Law (N.C.G.S. 7B-101.)
Emergency Situations:
Call 9-1-1 in emergency situations, when a child may be in immediate danger,
(On weekends and holidays, or after normal work hours, 9-1-1 will contact a social worker who is “On Call” to assist with child protective services emergencies.)
To make a report to Child Protective Services:
Call 919-693-1511 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and ask to speak with a Child Protective Services Intake Specialist.
Reports may also be made in person, by mail or by fax.
Mail letters to: Granville County Department of Social Services
Attn: Child Protective Services
PO Box 966
Oxford, NC 27565
or fax to 919-693-3347.
When an Abuse, Neglect or Dependency Report is received, the report is screened to determine whether or not it meets the statutory definitions. If the report meets requirements, the agency will conduct a thorough assessment.
The Multiple Response System allows county DSS agencies two different ways of responding to reports of child neglect or dependency:
- Investigative Assessment Response
- Family Assessment Response
However, in cases of abuse, DSS does not have this option and must respond with an Investigative Assessment.
Call 919-693-1511 for more information.