Recognizing Abuse

Sexual Violence

Visit our Sexual Violence Support Guide or our Sexual Assault Survivors Guide.

Child Protection

Everyone has a responsibility to report child abuse. 

How to Report Child Abuse in Ontario:

• If a child is in immediate danger: Call 911.
• If not in immediate danger: Call Family and children services of Guelph and Wellington County, 519-824-2410 — available 24/7. If you cannot reach FCS, call the police.

When Reporting:

• You don’t need proof — only reasonable suspicion.
• Stay calm and let the child speak in their own words.
• Don’t ask leading questions or investigate yourself.
• Reassure the child that it’s not their fault.

Legal Requirements in Ontario:

• It is mandatory to report suspected abuse or neglect for anyone who has concerns about a child under 16.
• Reporting for youth 16–17 is not mandatory but strongly encouraged.
• Reporters are legally protected, and their identity is kept confidential where possible.

More information: Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies website.

Elders' Abuse

Elders' abuse takes many forms:

• Physical Abuse: includes deliberate exposure to severe weather, inappropriate use of medication, unnecessary physical restraint, and any kind of physical assault, such as hitting, pushing and kicking.
• Psychological or Emotional Abuse: includes insults, threats, humiliation, controlling behaviour, confinement, isolation, and the removal of decision-making power when the individual is still competent to make their own decisions.
• Sexual Abuse: sexual contact without consent.
• Financial Exploitation: misusing or stealing a person's money or assets.
• Neglect or Abandonment: any lack of action required to meet the needs of an elderly person, this includes not providing food, housing, or medical care.
• Medication Abuse: misuse of an older person's medication and prescriptions on purpose or by accident.

To report elders' abuse, contact the Guelph Police Service at 519-824-1212.