Zero Tolerance

Abuse Prevention

Many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities rely on others for some level of care or support. This makes them especially vulnerable to abuse, neglect, or exploitation during their lifetime.

To combat this, the State of Florida established a Zero Tolerance Policy addressing all forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including human trafficking and sexual misconduct. This policy is a collaborative effort among service providers, families, individuals with disabilities, and other stakeholders. Measures include training, education, monitoring, quality assurance, administrative rules, procedures, and Florida Statutes to improve both prevention and reporting.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

To report known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation, contact the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or online at  Abuse Hotline | Florida DCF.