Child Protection

Lanark CAS believes that the best way to deal with child abuse and neglect is to prevent it.  That is why we encourage families experiencing difficulties to contact us before problems escalate and get out of control.  We can help you through the rough times and support and strengthen your family so that you are able to parent your children safely.  

Parenting is not easy.  In the best of circumstances it takes time, energy, patience and support.  It becomes more difficult when you have to cope with serious problems such as poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, ill health, relationship breakdown, or the challenge of caring for children with special needs.

Families in these circumstances come under a great deal of stress.  This can harm family relationships and distressed parents may abuse or neglect their children.

We will work with the family to help resolve the difficulties and strengthen their relationships to allow them to parent their children safely.  Working with our community we will connect families with other programs and services that can help.  Keeping families together is our goal.  When this is not possible we then provide quality alternative care if necessary.

Children rely upon adults for love, support, nurturing and protection.  If you think a child is being neglected or abused, it is your legal duty to report the situation to your local CAS.  You are protected from legal action for reporting your concerns.  In Lanark County and The Town of Smiths Falls call 613 264-9991 or toll free at 1-866-664-9991 – 24 hours a day, seven days a week.