Department of Children's Services
Kathryn “Kate” O’Day, Commissioner

What is Abuse? | Who Should Report Child Abuse? | What Happens When I Call Central Intake?

To report abuse or neglect: 1.877.237.0004 or click here.

The Department of Children's Services responds to over 37,000 reports of child abuse and neglect a year. Every day, more than 100 children are reported abused or neglected in Tennessee. The Child Protective Services division strives to protect children whose lives or health are seriously jeopardized because of abusive acts or negligence. This division also supports the preservation of families.

The department practices risk-oriented case management in order to help protect children. These are some of the caseworker’s major areas of responsibility:

• Investigating referrals of child abuse or neglect
• Identifying the risks that contributed to the abuse or neglect
• Delivering appropriate services to reduce risks
• Evaluating the success of the intervention
• Continuing services, if necessary
• Closing the case or reuniting the child/children and family