Child and Youth Safety is Everyone's Responsibility

Strong communities help keep children and youth safe. We all have a role to play in looking out for one another and ensuring that young people feel supported, valued, and connected.

For immediate safety concerns, call 911 immediately or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

If a child or youth tells you they are thinking about hurting themselves, or that someone is hurting them, please do not keep it to yourself. Making a report or calling for support is an act of care that can save a life.

If you are concerned about a child or youth's safety, wellbeing, mental health, or risk of self-harm, don't assume someone else will step in. Reaching out can make a meaningful difference in a young person's life.

The duty to report applies to everyone. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, relative, neighbour, coach, friend, or community member, you are not exempt. If you have reasonable grounds to suspect a child or youth may be in need of protection, you must report it right away. You do not need proof, and you do not need to be certain. Leave the assessment to the professionals.

Support and Crisis Lines:

Kids Help Phone (24/7)
Free, confidential support for children, youth, and young adults. Connect with professional counsellors or trained crisis responders by phone, text, or online anytime.
📞 1-800-668-6868
📱 Text CONNECT to 686868
🌐 www.kidshelpphone.ca

9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (24/7)
Call or text 9-8-8 for immediate support if you are thinking about suicide, experiencing emotional distress, or worried about someone else. Trained crisis responders are available day and night.
📞 or 📱 9-8-8
🌐 www.988.ca

Health Sciences North Crisis Services (24/7)
Immediate crisis assessment, intervention, and support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, including thoughts of self-harm or harm to others.
📞 705-675-4760
📞 Toll Free: 1-877-841-1101
🌐 www.crisishelp.ca

Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services
Duty to Report: Under Ontario's Child, Youth and Family Services Act, everyone has a duty to report. If you have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child or youth may be in need of protection, including abuse or neglect, you must report your concerns to Nogdawindamin right away.
📞 1-800-465-0999
🌐 https://www.nog.ca/

Afterhours Child and Family Support:
📞 705-863-2572
Available for child welfare and Family crisis
Connects family to appropriate services
Coordinates referrals to follow up

ConnexOntario Mental Health Helpline (24/7)
Free and confidential information, support, and referrals for mental health, addictions, gambling, and eating disorder services across Ontario. Support is available for individuals, families, and caregivers.
📞 1-866-531-2600
🌐 www.connexontario.ca

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Together, we can create a community where every child and youth feels safe, supported, and cared for.

If you see something, say something. A conversation, a phone call, or an act of care can make all the difference.

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