Rising Child Welfare Reports: Stockholm's New Challenge
In 2022, Stockholm received 36,452 child welfare reports, part of a national trend with a 27% increase in reports concerning children aged 0-17 from 2018 to 2021. Stockholm's reports also increased by 24% from 2018 to 2020, not aligned with population growth. Stockholm's social services believe they can handle the load, with digital reporting streamlining processes. Reports primarily come from authorities like the police and, occasionally, private individuals. Concerns about reports arising from personal disputes are rare and usually identified during investigations.
The rising number of reports may indicate increased awareness of children's rights among mandatory reporters and organizations since the Child Convention became law in 2020. Despite this, the correlation between low-income areas and higher report rates persists. The social services operate on a voluntary participation basis, offering support and interventions, but ultimately, parents have the final say when a child's welfare is at stake.
How to Report if you suspect a child under 18 is in danger:
- Visit Stockholm City's website and search for "child welfare report."
- Fill out the digital form with details about the child, your observations, and concerns.
- Submit the report, providing information needed by social services.
The goal is to lower the threshold for contacting social services, encouraging parents to seek help and accept interventions voluntarily.
Read more:
DN: Stockholm Wants to Increase the Number of Child Welfare Reports