West Virginia
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of West Virginia
West Virginia law defines child abuse and neglect to include non-accidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect (failure to provide food, shelter, supervision, medical care), abandonment, endangerment, and other conduct that places a child under 18 at substantial risk of harm. These statutory definitions guide CPS screening and investigation.
(Source: W. Va. Code § 49-2-803 (definitions and mandated-reporting framework).)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
West Virginia’s mandated-reporter statute lists the categories of professionals required to report suspected child abuse and neglect — and that list includes religious providers when they fall under the named categories (e.g., clergy, Christian Science practitioners in certain roles). When clergy obtain information outside a privileged/confidential spiritual communication, they are among persons required to report.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway — “Clergy as Mandatory Reporters: West Virginia.”)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
If a clergy member (or any mandated reporter) has reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect, they must immediately report to West Virginia’s Bureau for Social Services via the Centralized Intake/Child Abuse Hotline (see below). Follow-up written information should be provided if the bureau requests it. Reporters acting in good faith have statutory immunity; knowingly failing to report is a criminal offense.
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Definitions used for churches mirror statutory language: physical injury, sexual abuse/exploitation, neglect, abandonment, emotional harm, and endangerment. State guidance and child-welfare partners encourage faith communities to adopt safe-environment measures — background checks, two-adult rules, mandated-reporter training for clergy and volunteers, clear written policies, and immediate external reporting (not internal-only investigations). The Centralized Intake hotline number should be posted where staff/volunteers can see it.
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
School personnel (teachers, administrators, counselors, nurses, coaches, bus drivers, aides, and volunteers in official capacities) are specifically included among mandated reporters under §49-2-803. In addition, the law permits any person with reasonable cause to report suspected abuse or neglect. Telling a supervisor alone does not discharge the legal duty — the report must go to Centralized Intake or law enforcement.
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School staff who reasonably suspect abuse or neglect must immediately contact Centralized Intake (the WV Child Abuse Hotline) or local law enforcement. If requested, provide a written follow-up report. School districts are expected to have procedures ensuring staff know how to report and that no internal investigation delays external reporting.
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Schools should apply the same statutory definitions when assessing concerns (physical, sexual, neglect, emotional harm, endangerment). Recommended prevention practices include mandated-reporter training for all staff, background checks for employees/volunteers, clear internal protocols that require immediate external reporting, supervision policies to limit unsupervised one-on-one interactions with minors, and posting the Child Abuse Hotline number for staff reference.
(Source: WV DHHR prevention guidance and mandated-reporter fact sheets.)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in West Virginia
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Reports are received through Centralized Intake — WV Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-352-6513 (24/7). Use 911 for emergencies.
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West Virginia has been under intense scrutiny for child-welfare capacity and foster-care system issues in 2024–2025: staffing shortages, high foster-care caseloads, and court orders assigning state officials to serve as caseworkers have been reported, highlighting strain on CPS response and the importance of prompt, accurate reporting and good interagency cooperation.
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Good-faith reporters have statutory immunity; knowingly failing to report or making false reports can carry criminal penalties. The Bureau for Social Services screens reports and initiates assessments or investigations per statute.
(Source: WV DHHR/Bureau for Social Services hotline & reporting pages.)
How to make a report in the state of West Virginia
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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West Virginia Child Protective Services (CPS) Hotline / Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting: 1-800-352-6513— statewide toll-free number.
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If the child is in immediate danger or life-threatening situation: call 911 or local law enforcement first.
After Making the Call –
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The hotline report will be screened by DHHR/CPS to determine if the allegations meet statutory criteria for investigation.
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If requested, a written follow-up may be required from the reporter (especially for mandated reporters).
What Information to Provide (as known):
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Child’s name, age (or date of birth), address or location.
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Names and contact information of parents, caregivers, or persons responsible for the child, if known.
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Description of the suspected abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions — what was seen, heard, or disclosed; any injuries, neglect, environmental hazards, or risk factors.
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Any immediate safety or medical concerns — risk of harm, need for medical attention, danger or ongoing neglect.
Who Should Report / Legal Duty:
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Any person who suspects child abuse or neglect is encouraged — and in many cases required — to report.
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“Mandated reporters” (such as medical professionals, educators, social workers, childcare providers, law enforcement, etc.) have a legal obligation to report when they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect.
Protections & Confidentiality:
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Reports made in good faith are protected by law — the reporter is immune from civil or criminal liability if they report based on reasonable suspicion.
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If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call the hotline or 911 without delay — the safety of the child is the top priority.
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
