Uppsala municipality is expanding resources for Stödcentrum to address the growing need for support for youths aged 10 to 21 affected by or suspected of crimes. There is also rising demand from guardians and schools. The social committee has made the decision to provide timely assistance.
Uppsala municipality's Stödcentrum is receiving expanded resources to meet a large and growing demand for support. The service targets youths aged 10 to 21 in complex crime-related situations, with case numbers rising sharply in recent years, especially for crime-suspected youth and their guardians. Demand from schools and families has also increased, including needs for mediation and conflict management in school environments and crime cases. Stödcentrum provides support conversations for youths who have been victims of, witnessed, or committed crimes; guidance on police and legal processes; assistance to guardians during prolonged proceedings or detentions; consultative support to schools; training for various actors; and coordination via the municipality's crisis phone line. Anonymous contact is available with full confidentiality, without requiring a police report. Hanna Victoria Mörck (V), chair of the social committee, stated: – With these bolstered resources, more children and youth can receive support in time, before problems escalate. It is crucial for safety now and to prevent serious issues in the future. Mikaela Eriksson, mediator and counselor at Stödcentrum, added: – We see how important it is to follow both youth and parents more closely. With more resources, we can work more long-term and provide more sustainable support throughout the process. The social committee assesses that the investment will have positive effects for children, youth, families, and crime prevention efforts in the municipality.
