Child at risk — Vertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling

Direct answer

You do not need proof — a worry is enough, and you will not be blamed if it turns out to be nothing. Vertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling / SOS Enfants (1712) is the child-protection service for Belgium: they assess, advise you about what you have seen, and act if needed; you can call anonymously. Awel (102) / Écoute-Enfants (103) (102) is the helpline for children and young people themselves — tell the child it exists. A child in immediate danger: Politie — Police-on-web (police.be).

Call firstVertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling / SOS Enfants

Report toAwel (102) / Écoute-Enfants (103)

If that failsPolitie — Police-on-web

🗣️ What to say

"I am worried about a child, [name/age if known], at [address / school]. I have noticed [what: injuries, statements, being left alone, hunger, fear] on [dates]. I am [neighbour / teacher / relative]. I would like advice on what to do / to report this."

🪜 Step by step

Write down what you sawFacts, dates, the child's own words if any. Do not interrogate the child.
Call Vertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling / SOS EnfantsFor advice first if you are unsure; they help you decide. Anonymity is possible.
Danger now: Politie — Police-on-webPolice and emergency services. Do not wait for the service's office hours.
Professionals: your dutyTeachers, doctors and carers have a legal duty or a protocol to report. Use it.
Keep the child in viewA trusted adult who keeps noticing is the best protection until the service acts.

📇 All contacts

Vertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling / SOS EnfantsReports of suspected child abuseAs soon as a child worries you📞 1712 🔗 www.kindermishandeling.be

Awel (102) / Écoute-Enfants (103)Helpline for children and teenagersFor children and teenagers📞 102 🔗 www.awel.be

Politie — Police-on-webOnline report, case number immediatelyAlways — the basis for bank, insurer and platform🔗 www.police.be/nl/e-loket

OCMW / DG Personen met een handicap / ZorgkasSocial assistance, allowances, care budgetFor care and support📞 0800 987 99 🔗 www.handicap.belgium.be

Slachtofferhulp (CAW) / Commissie voor financiële hulp aan slachtoffersFree support and accompaniment, compensationAfter any crime📞 0800 13 500 🔗 www.slachtofferzorg.be

❓ Frequently asked

Will the child be taken away?

Removal is the last resort; the first response is support for the family. Reporting is the start of help, not of separation.

What if I am wrong?

Reports in good faith carry no liability. Services expect and prefer early, uncertain reports.

The child told me something in confidence

You can promise to help, not to keep it secret. Explain that you have to tell someone whose job it is to keep them safe.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

🔎 Common searches

Recognise your own search? The answer above covers all of these.

“report child abuse Belgium”
“child protection helpline Belgium”
“worried about a child who to call”
“child neglect report anonymous”
“child helpline number”

🧭 Is this still correct?

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🧒 I am worried a child is being abused or neglected — who do I tell?