Uppsala youth service and police in Uppsala and Knivsta are appealing to guardians to maintain close contact with youths ahead of Valborg celebrations. Risks of alcohol debut, crime, and vulnerability rise during the weekend, both in person and on social media. Adult presence can significantly enhance youth safety.
Uppsala youth service and police are distributing information to guardians ahead of April 30 to bolster youth safety. Many young people gather outdoors during Valborg, a holiday marked by both fun and heightened risks.
"Valborg is a holiday that many youths look forward to and a time when a lot of fun happens in Uppsala. At the same time, we know it is a period when the risk increases for youths to suffer harm. By being present and maintaining contact during the evening, we adults can make a big difference for youth safety," says Hilde Wiberg, unit manager at Uppsala youth service.
They provide five practical tips: Do not buy alcohol for minors, stay in contact during the day and evening to know their whereabouts, collaborate with other adults on times and rules, discuss risks to show support, and be available to pick up or assist.
Guardians are encouraged to report youth gathering spots via uppsalaungdomsjour@uppsala.se or polisen.se/om-polisen/kontakt/tipsa-polisen. Support is available through Stödcentrum and Ungdomscentrum for those affected or concerned.
