Posted November 2, 2015

Anyone may report suspected child abuse to ChildLine, the 24-hour statewide system operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, at 1-800-932-0313. Any conduct that could be considered a crime may also be reported to a local police department.

One wishing to report sexual abuse or other misconduct by a priest, deacon, employee or volunteer of the Philadelphia Archdiocese may call the archdiocesan Office of Investigations at 1-888-930-9010. Callers will be asked to provide their name, date of birth, current address and phone number, name of the accused, dates and location of the abuse or misconduct, and a brief description of the facts.

The archdiocese is required by law to report suspected child abuse to ChildLine. In addition, it is archdiocesan policy to report immediately to law enforcement any conduct that could constitute a crime.

After one’s report is taken, a Victim Assistance Coordinator in the archdiocesan Office for Child and Youth Protection’s Victim will follow up to discuss what support and services are available. If after making the complaint one wishes to speak immediately with a Victim Assistance Coordinator, the connection will be made.

Anyone designated under Pennsylvania law as a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse should understand the reporting requirements on the Child Welfare Portal of the Department of Human Services’ website, along with other information about making a report of child abuse.