LEE COUNTY, Fla.- Four in Your Corner is investigating a potentially troubling trend in the Department of Children and Families abuse hotline.
Four in Your Corner has received complaints that it is taking nearly an hour to get through to someone on the hotline. When we called, a recording stated they were experiencing high call volume.
In a statement, DCF spokeswoman Jessica Sims said the department continues to carefully monitor the performance of the abuse hotline and call volume can be affected by a variety of external factors.
"A number of measures have been implemented to enhance hotline performance. These include stabilizing the work force, analyzing call volume trends to ensure the hotline is staffed appropriately, and ensuring staff are on call to supplement the work force as needed. We are also reviewing the online reporting system to ensure it is as efficient and effective as possible," Sims stated.
Governor Rick Scott has recently pledged to increase funding for DCF.
In Florida, any individual who suspects that a child has been abused by any person is required to report it to the Florida Abuse Hotline.
Individuals can make a report by calling 1-800-962-2873
