Child Protection Services

Hennepin County provides a continuum of services designed to protect children whose health or welfare may be at risk due to abuse or neglect (maltreatment). A report of suspected abuse or neglect triggers a series of possible child protection activities. Intake workers screen reports to make certain that what is being alleged meets the statutory criteria for Hennepin's child protection to get involved. If so, next steps--including possible investigation--center on determining if maltreatment has occurred and/or whether the family is in need of services to protect against future harm.

Throughout, the chief focus is the safety of the child. Where there appears significant risk of harm to a child remaining in the home, a child can be removed from the home and placed in emergency shelter or in foster care. We work with the family in order to able to safely return the child to his or her home. However, in cases where safely returning the child is not possible, we look for a safe, alternative permanent home which might include adoption.

For more information:

• Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect 
• After the Report: Screening, Assessment & Investigation