False Allegations of Abuse and Neglect

In most jurisdictions across Canada, professionals working with children and the public are required to report suspected child abuse and neglect to local child welfare authorities. One-third of these cases, after investigation, prove to be unsubstantiated. For example, bruises resulting from a playground injury may be misinterpreted as suspicious injuries requiring a report. In most cases, unsubstantiated reports of child abuse and neglect are made in good faith. Occasionally, though, unsubstantiated reports may be intentionally false.