About the Office of Civil Rights

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and local social services offices, in accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion or political beliefs. The VDSS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) works to ensure civil rights by:

• Upholding equal access and opportunity to participate in social service programs
• Investigating allegations of discrimination
• Conducting compliance reviews of local socials service offices
• Providing guidelines and resources to both the general public and to VDSS local offices

Guidance & Procedures

• How to File a Civil Rights Complaint (PDF)
• Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Legal Authorities (PDF)

Forms

• Complaint (PDF)
• Complaint (Spanish) (PDF)