Vermont Department for Children and Families Launches Updated Mandated Reporter Training

[Waterbury, VT] -When concerns about a child's safety arise, knowing what to do next matters. The Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) has launched Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect in Vermont, a new online training that gives mandated reporters the knowledge and tools they need to recognize child abuse and neglect and understand their responsibilities under Vermont law.

Mandated reporters are people required by Vermont law to report reasonable suspicions of child abuse and neglect. They include educators, health care providers, childcare professionals, law enforcement, social workers, and others who work closely with children and families.

"Protecting children is the most important responsibility we share," said DCF Commissioner Sandi Hoffman. "Strong partnerships, informed decisions, and timely action help ensure children are safe, and families receive the support they need."

The new training replaces the prior training, Protecting Vermont's Children: Reporting Abuse and Neglect. It was developed with input from community partners, subject matter experts, and professionals from several fields. The self-paced, online course takes about two hours to complete.

Participants will learn how to recognize signs of child abuse and neglect, understand Vermont's mandated reporting laws, and decide when a report should be made. The training also addresses common questions about reporting, uses realistic scenarios, and provides practical resources that participants can revisit after completing the course.

"Protecting children starts with informed decisions. This training gives mandated reporters the confidence to make the right call," said Aryka Radke, DCF-FSD Deputy Commissioner.

The training is available to both mandated reporters and anyone who wants to better understand how to recognize and report suspected child abuse or neglect in Vermont. Whether you are required by law to report, or simply want to learn more about protecting children, DCF encourages all Vermonters to complete the training.

To access the training and learn more, visit: Vermont Mandated Reporting.