DA Form 7317-1: Child Abuse Hotline 7-Day Follow-Up

DA Form 7317-1: Child Abuse Hotline 7-Day Follow-Up – DA Form 7317-1, titled Child Abuse/Safety Violation Hotline 7-Day Follow-Up Information, is an official U.S. Army form used within the Family Advocacy Program (FAP). Released on October 1, 2003, it documents follow-up details on reports of suspected child abuse, neglect, or safety violations initially made through a designated hotline.

This form ensures timely tracking, investigation updates, and victim safety measures in the critical first week after an initial report. It complements the intake form (DA Form 7317) and a longer 90-day follow-up (DA Form 7317-2).

Download the official DA Form 7317-1 here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/ARN45867-DA_FORM_7317-1-100-EFILE-1.pdf.

Purpose and Role in the Army Family Advocacy Program

The Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP), governed primarily by AR 608-18, prevents, identifies, reports, investigates, and treats child abuse, neglect, and domestic issues in military families. FAP coordinates with medical, legal, law enforcement, and social services to protect victims and support families.

Key objectives include:

  • Encouraging prompt reporting of suspected abuse.
  • Ensuring rapid assessment and investigation.
  • Providing protection and treatment for victims and families.
  • Maintaining accurate records for accountability and quality improvement.

The Family Advocacy Program Manager (FAPM) typically completes DA Form 7317-1 within 7 days of the initial hotline report. It records actions taken, investigation progress, and any immediate outcomes or safety measures.

This process supports the Army Central Registry (ACR) and complies with Department of Defense directives like DOD 6400.1-M.

When and Why Is DA Form 7317-1 Used?

  • Hotline Reports: Following an initial report via the Child Abuse/Safety Violation Hotline (often tied to installation FAP offices or the 24-hour emergency response system).
  • Follow-Up Documentation: Captures updates on victim information, incident details, actions by command/FAPM, referrals to Child Protective Services (CPS), medical evaluations, or law enforcement involvement.
  • Case Management: Helps determine if the case proceeds to the Case Review Committee (CRC) for substantiation and further intervention.
  • Out-of-Home Care or Sanctioned Activities: Special emphasis on incidents in DOD-operated child and youth programs.

Commanders, FAP staff, and designated personnel use it to ensure compliance, victim safety, and proper coordination with civilian authorities where needed (via Memorandums of Agreement).

Key Sections of DA Form 7317-1 (Overview)

While the exact layout is in the PDF, typical elements include:

  • Original report reference and date.
  • Follow-up actions taken within 7 days.
  • Investigation status and involved parties (victim, alleged offender, witnesses).
  • Safety measures implemented.
  • Referrals and outcomes.
  • Signatures and dates from FAP personnel or commanders.

Accurate, timely completion is essential for confidentiality, legal compliance, and effective case management. Forms feed into the ACR for Army-wide tracking while protecting Privacy Act information.

How to Access and Complete the Form?

  1. Download the fillable PDF from the official Army Publishing Directorate link above.
  2. Use with guidance from your installation FAP office or FAPM.
  3. Submit through proper FAP channels — not for general public or self-use outside official duties.

Note: Only authorized Army personnel (FAP staff, commanders, etc.) should complete and handle these forms. Civilians or service members suspecting abuse should report rather than complete administrative forms themselves.

Reporting Suspected Child Abuse in the Military (For Concerned Families)

If you suspect child abuse or neglect:

  • Contact your local installation Family Advocacy Program office (find via Military OneSource or installation Military and Family Support Center).
  • Use the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788.
  • For emergencies, call local law enforcement or 911.
  • Additional resource: Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453).

Military OneSource and installation FAP provide confidential support, victim advocates, counseling, and prevention programs.

Why This Matters for Army Families?

Child safety is a top priority in the U.S. Army. Proper use of forms like DA 7317-1 ensures reports are taken seriously, victims receive swift protection, and families get the support needed to heal and strengthen relationships. FAP also offers prevention education, parenting classes, and resilience-building programs.

Related Resources:

  • AR 608-18: The Army Family Advocacy Program.
  • Military OneSource FAP page.
  • Installation FAP offices (searchable via Military OneSource).

For the most current guidance, consult your installation FAP or official Army regulations, as policies evolve to better serve service members and their families.