What is a welfare check on a child?

A welfare check on a child is a visit conducted by authorities or social workers to ensure the safety and well-being of a child. This can be prompted by concerns about the child's living conditions, reports of abuse or neglect, or other factors that may be putting the child at risk.

During a welfare check, the authorities will typically investigate the child's home environment, speak with the child and their caregivers, and assess any potential risks to the child's safety. They may also conduct interviews with other individuals who have contact with the child, such as teachers, neighbors, or relatives.

If authorities determine that a child is in danger or is being neglected, they may take immediate action to remove the child from the home or provide necessary support and services to the family. In some cases, a child protective services agency may become involved to monitor the situation and ensure the child's safety moving forward.

Welfare checks on children are typically conducted by local law enforcement agencies, child protective services, or social workers who are trained to assess and respond to situations involving children at risk. The goal of these checks is to ensure that children are safe, healthy, and well-cared for in their homes.