Child and Family Services
The Longyearbyen local government has a child and family service that performs tasks in accordance with the Child Welfare Act. The service works to ensure that children live in safe and good conditions, and is responsible for identifying neglect, behavioral problems, and social/emotional challenges.
Opening hours and contact details
- Office hours: Weekdays 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Emergency assistance outside office hours: Call Child Welfare Services on 79 02 23 05
Child Welfare Services
What does the Child Welfare Service do?
- Identifies and prevents neglect and behavioral problems
- Offers assistance in the form of advice and guidance
- Can place children outside the home if necessary
- In serious cases, custody may be taken over – decided by the County Board
Reporting concerns
- You can report concerns anonymously, verbally, or in writing
- Public employees must submit written reports
- You can download the report of concern form pdf, 59 kB, opens in new window. here.
If you are unsure whether to report a concern to child welfare services, you can get advice on the website of the Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs External link, opens in new window.
Emergency telephone number and emergency assistance
- Emergency telephone number for children and young people: 116 111 (free and open 24 hours a day)
- link
- If you suspect criminal activity (violence, abuse): Call the police on 02800 or the emergency number 112
The Child and Family Services also cooperates with the Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufetat) in Tromsø on measures and assistance for children and families who are in particular need of this. Bufetat includes the state child welfare services and is obliged to assist municipalities in their work with children and families who need assistance.
Preventive services
The child and family counselor provides advice and guidance, and can refer you to relevant agencies.
Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Participants: Kindergartens, schools, public health nurses, PP counselors, and child and family counselors
- Purpose: Early intervention in cases of concern
- Parents/guardians are always informed and invited
- Consent from parents/guardians is required
- Contact the kindergarten/school if necessary
Family Welfare Office
- Cooperation with the Family Welfare Office in Tromsø
- Office days in Longyearbyen approx. once a month
- Advertised in Svalbardposten
- Appointments: Call 46 61 56 20
- Link to the Family Welfare Office External link.
Mediation in the event of separation:
According to the Children and Parents Act and the Marriage Act, all married and cohabiting couples with children under the age of 16 must attend statutory mediation when they separate. More information about statutory mediation for parents can be found here External link, opens in new window..
Emergency helpline for children and young people: 116 111
If you need urgent help, you can call the emergency helpline for children and young people on 116 111. This is a free service that is available 24 hours a day. Read more about the emergency helpline for children and young people here www.116111.no External link, opens in new window.
If you suspect that a child is being subjected to a criminal offense, such as violence or sexual abuse, you should notify the police.
Call the police at 02800 - Emergency number 112
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