Reporting to Youth Protection Services

To report a situation or an emergency related to the protection of a young person in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, call 1 800 463-9009

This section provides various information related to the protection of children and adolescents.

Receiving and processing a report

A situation involving a child can be reported to the Direction de la protection de la jeunesse (DPJ) du Bas-Saint-Laurent by a person who has reason to believe that the child’s safety or development is at risk. Most often, the DPJ is notified of situations like this by phone. This is called a “report.” Without a report, the DPJ cannot proceed with an investigation. As soon as a report is received, the DPJ conducts a preliminary assessment of the situation. Based on the information obtained at that time, the DPJ decides whether or not the report requires intervention.

The identity of the person reporting a situation to the DPJ is confidential and cannot be disclosed. 

Report not requiring intervention

The DPJ may determine from the outset that the report does not warrant intervention. This is the case, for example, when the reported facts do not allow the DPJ to intervene. You or your child may still need support.

Report requiring intervention

If the report concerning your child is accepted, the DPJ conducts a more in-depth evaluation of the situation. Sometimes, immediate protective measures are necessary and are then taken by the DPJ.

Information consultation

In addition to a report, an information consultation can also be submitted to the DPJ intake service. This involves obtaining information in order to request services. It also allows you to receive information about other available resources or professional advice to help you better understand and resolve the situation yourself.

When to report a child’s situation

If you are a professional working with children, an employee in the health and social services network, a teacher, a childcare worker or a police officer:

The Youth Protection Act (s. 39 and 39.1) provides that:

  • in the course of your professional duties, you must report to the DPJ all situations covered by the Youth Protection Act;
  • when not acting in the course of your professional duties, you must report all cases of sexual and physical abuse, even if you believe the parents are taking steps to address the situation; it is the DPJ’s responsibility to assess whether these measures are adequate;
  • you may, when not acting in the course of your professional duties, report other situations that may compromise a child’s safety or development.

Other individuals:

  • must report all cases of sexual and physical abuse, even if they believe the parents are taking steps to address the situation; it is the DPJ’s responsibility to assess whether these measures are adequate;
  • may report other situations that could compromise a child’s safety or development.