Child Protection Services
To report suspected abuse or neglect of a child in Washington County, please call 651-430-6457, or send a secure email to: ChildProtection@Co.Washington.MN.US (click here for instructions on sending a secure email)
If the child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local police department.
Washington County has the responsibility and authority to assure that children alleged to be abused or neglected are
protected from harm or danger and that children in need of protection or services receive the appropriate services.
This is a major responsibility and is taken very seriously by this Department. Washington County Community Services
believes that the child's best interest and protection is maximized by maintaining the child at home whenever possible.
• Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect
• Mandated Reporting
• Juvenile Court Video: In the Best Interests of Your Child - December 2009 (27 min.)
Washington County Community Social Services implemented a new intake procedure
effective June 1, 2009, by using a phone tree. This is due to increased growth in the number of
calls received at the intake level (more than 10,000 in 2008) and the reduction in staff due to recent
budget concerns. When Washington County residents, professionals, or mandated reporters
call Intake, they will have the following choices:
| Press 1 |
To make a report of physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children or vulnerable adults. |
| Press 2 |
For help with an Order for Protection or Shelter from Family Violence. |
| Press 3 |
To make a request for adult mental health pre-petition screening or case management services. |
| Press 4 |
For home care and other community supports for elderly or disabled individuals. |
| Press 5 |
For questions about financial or medical assistance, food stamps or emergency assistance. |
| Press 6 |
To request adult or child chemical health assessments or funding, or Children’s Mental Health
Services (call H.S.I. at 777-5222). |
| Press 7 |
For questions about Child Support, becoming a Child Care or Foster Care provider, or Housing assistance. |
| Press 8 |
For information regarding eligibility for services for persons with developmental disabilities. |
| Press 0 |
Other questions - someone will answer shortly. |
