Child Protective Services

Important Links & Documents

• Parents' Guide to Child Protective Services (CPS)
• Are You Concerned About A Child Who May Be Abused or Neglected? Watch This Video to Learn More
• Suspected Child Abuse Tip Sheet for Medical Providers
• Physical Child Abuse Order Set Tip Sheet for Medical Providers

Child Protective Services (CPS) Focus

Child Protective Services (CPS) is the first step to ensure the safety and permanency of children who are reported as being abused or neglected. The focus of CPS is on protecting the child from harm or risk of harm and to make it safe for the child to live with the parent or caretaker. The CPS worker assesses family functioning and identifies strengths and risks in the home. As part of the assessment to ensure that the home is safe for the child(ren), the CPS worker and family will develop a plan to address any problems that have been identified.

CPS Agencies Respond to Reports of Abuse or Neglect of Children Under the Age of Eighteen

CPS agencies respond to reports of abuse or neglect of children under the age of eighteen. Abuse or neglect complaints are defined in statute, and include mental injury, physical injury, sexual abuse and exploitation, negligent treatment or maltreatment, and excessive corporal punishment. Referrals are also made to community-based services to assist families to prevent their entry into the child welfare system. Clark County Department of Family Services receives fifty percent of the referrals to CPS agencies, thirty-two percent are received by Washoe County Department of Social Services and the balance are received by DCFS agencies.

Because child abuse and neglect are complex and multidimensional, CPS alone cannot effectively intervene in the lives of maltreated children and their families. A coordinated effort that involves a broad range of community agencies and professionals is essential for effective child protection.