Highland County Children’s Services works with families to help keep Highland County children safe.
A Report is Made
Children’s Services is available to accept reports of abuse/neglect during business hours at 393-3111. After business hours contact the Highland County Sheriff's office at 393-1471. The sheriff will contact a caseworker for emergencies. Children's Services is legally responsible for taking reports of child abuse and neglect, investigating reports and acting to protect child victims and children at risk of harm.
Children’s Services caseworkers’ primary interest is the safety of the children. When abuse or neglect is reported, trained social workers investigate the allegation. If they determine abuse or neglect has occurred, caseworkers will try to help parents or caregivers deal with the issues that have led to abuse or neglect.
If you suspect child abuse, please don’t hesitate to call 937-393-3111, to report your suspicions
Family Involvement
In some cases, Children’s Services may remain involved with a family if additional services are needed. The division works closely with both families and community partners in making decisions that affect the children. Children’s Services may also refer families to services – such as drug abuse treatment, emergency housing, mental health counseling and parent training – for additional help.
If necessary for the safety of the children, Children’s Services seeks protective temporary or permanent custody of children through Juvenile Court. Children may be placed in temporary care of relatives, foster parents or others when they cannot be safe in their own homes. In some cases, Children’s Services will provide training in independent living skills for older teens.
Our Partners
The Children’s Services division of Highland County Job and Family Services is one piece of a larger child protection system in Highland County including:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Highland County’s Prosecutor’s Office
- Highland County Juvenile Court
- Various boards and agencies