DELAWARE
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Delaware
Delaware law defines child abuse or neglect broadly under Title 16, Chapter 9, including physical injury, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect, abandonment, or maltreatment by a caretaker. “Abuse” can include non-accidental injury, exploitation, torture, or emotional harm.
(Source: Mandatory Reporting – Child Welfare Gateway (Delaware)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy fall under Delaware’s “any person” reporting duty as spelled out in statute. They must report when they know or in good faith suspect abuse or neglect. The law recognizes clergy-penitent privilege (confidential communications) under certain conditions, but that does not exempt reporting when the knowledge arises outside of privileged communications.
(Source: Mandatory Reporting – Child Welfare Gateway (Delaware)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Under 16 Del. C. § 903, any person, agency, organization, or entity that knows or in good faith suspects child abuse or neglect must immediately make an oral report to the Delaware Division of Family Services (DFS). This report may be followed by required written reports when requested. Reports can also be made via an online portal.
(Source: Delaware DPR – Mandatory Reports Related to Child Abuse & Neglect)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Delaware defines key terms such as “abuse,” “neglect,” “exploitation,” “maltreatment,” etc., in statute and in DFS guidance. Churches are encouraged to adopt prevention practices such as staff training, safe environment policies, awareness of reporting obligations, and collaboration with state DFS prevention and education programs.
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
School employees are among the persons explicitly listed in Delaware statute as required to report suspected child abuse or neglect. This includes teachers, school staff, counselors, and others interacting with children in educational settings.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gatewaydenver.goarch.org)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
When school personnel reasonably suspect abuse or neglect, they must immediately make an oral report to DFS (via the child abuse hotline) and may follow up with a written report as requested. The DFS will contact the reporter within 48 hours to clarify or obtain additional information. Reports of death or serious injury must also be handled with law enforcement coordination.
(Source: Making and Screening Reports – Child Welfare Gateway (Delaware)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Schools must work with the same statutory definitions: abuse, neglect, exploitation, maltreatment. They should support prevention by providing training for staff on recognizing and reporting abuse, adopting policies to protect students, and promoting awareness of DFS resources.
(Source: Resource Guide – Mandatory Reporting, DE)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Delaware
Delaware operates a 24-hour child abuse and neglect hotline (1-800-292-9582). DFS maintains public education and training efforts such as the “I See the Signs” program to raise awareness of child abuse indicators and prevention. The state also uses multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and case reviews for fatalities and serious injury cases to monitor trends and outcomes.
(Source: Disclosure of Confidential Child Abuse Records – Delaware)
How to make a report in the state of Delaware
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Delaware Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1-800-292-9582 (24/7)
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Emergency? Call 911 First.
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Reporting to police does not replace calling the hotline.
Optional (Non-Emergency Only):
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File online through the DSCYF Reporter Portal.
After Making the Call –
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If requested, submit a written follow-up report using the form or instructions provided by DSCYF.
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Do not email reports — use phone, online portal, fax, mail, or in-person delivery.
Have This Information Ready When Reporting:
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Child’s name, age, and location
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Details of what was seen or suspected
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Names of parents/caregivers, if known
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Any immediate safety or medical concerns
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
In a world where child protection is paramount, ECAP is elevating child protection standards, ensuring a secure and nurturing environment in Christian ministries.
Every aspect of life adheres to specific standards – whether it be technology, education, finances, or industry practices.
In Jesus’ teachings, He imparted immense value to children, emphasizing the significance of their well-being. Reflecting on this profound truth, a compelling question emerges: Shouldn’t child protection be upheld to an even higher standard than these other areas, considering the blessing of children?
Join Us in the Fight to Protect the Next Generation.
Transforming child safety measures, ECAP is empowering Christian churches, schools, and camps nationwide to embrace an elevated standard of care.
Together, let’s shield our children from harm and create a brighter, safer tomorrow!
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
