Reporting suspected abuse

See information on reporting alleged abuse and what to do if you’re worried about a child.

Level of compliance Main audience Other

Inform

  • All Education Staff
  • Parents, Caregivers and Whānau
  • Students and Past Students
  • General public

 

What should I do if I suspect a child is being abused?

Suspected abuse of a child should be reported to Oranga Tamariki and/or the NZ Police. Oranga Tamariki and the NZ Police are able to investigate allegations and hold offenders accountable.

You can find information about reporting suspected abuse of a child to Oranga Tamariki on their website.

Worried about a child? Tell us – Oranga Tamariki(external link)

You can find information about reporting suspected abuse of a child to the the Police on their website.

I suspect a child is being abused. What should I do? – NZ Police(external link)

If you are worried about a child 

Follow the process in your Child Protection policy if you suspect abuse.

If there is a real risk that the child will be harmed ring the Police on 111 or Oranga Tamariki as soon as you can.

NZ Police: 111

Oranga Tamariki freephone (NZ only): 0508 326 459

What is the Ministry of Education’s role?

The Ministry of Education can help schools and early learning services to prepare for, manage and respond to traumatic events, including suspected abuse.

More information about our Traumatic Incident services can be found on our website.

Responding after a crisis

We can also help you raise matters relating to suspected abuse with an early learning service, school or other education facility.

Contact

For more information you can contact:

Stephanie.Ramirez@education.govt.nz

Phone: 04 439 5441 or 0276158429

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