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Child protection

The goal of child protection is to support parents in taking good care of their children. If you think a child is being abused or neglected, you should notify child protection.

It is important to immediately raise concerns about the welfare and safety of children, whether due to the behavior of others or the child themselves.

Reporting to child protection

A report to child protection is a request for support and assistance for a child and their family. You can request anonymity towards the person being reported.

You can also send a notification to Garðabær child protection services at the email address child protection@gardabaer.is or call by phone 525 8500 during the opening hours of the Garðabær service center. Outside opening hours (in the evenings and on weekends) you can contact the emergency child protection service via the Emergency Line by phone. 112.

Child protection service staff emphasize the utmost care in communicating with children and parents and showing them respect and confidentiality. Work is carried out in accordance with child protection laws.

Are you a child?

If you think you or another child is in danger call 112.

You can also talk to someone immediately and get advice by calling 1717 (the Red Cross helpline) or speaking on the online chat at 1717.isIt is open 24 hours a day and is free.

What should be reported to child protection?

All children (under 18) have the right to safety. By law, you should report to child protection if you are concerned about:

  • Neglect of a child
  • A child is being abused
  • Child's risky behavior
  • The health or life of an unborn child is at risk

It is important to contact us if you suspect that your child's well-being is at risk. If you believe a child is in danger, call 112 immediately.

What happens after notification?

Child Protective Services assesses the information and makes a decision on whether to investigate the matter further. A decision is usually made within 7 days of the report.

Those reporting are required to provide their name so that child protection services can contact them if further information is needed. You can request anonymity, which applies to everyone other than child protection staff.

Parents are always notified that a report has been received. Due to confidentiality with families, those who report to child protection are not allowed to monitor the status of the case.

Support available

Child protection services offer support for children and families. Emphasis is always placed on cooperation with parents and children.

Examples of support:

  • Interviews with child protection consultants
  • Expert services
  • Supervision, personal advisors and supportive families
  • Roadside assistance Children and Family Clinic

Child welfare

All children have the right to receive the help they need to grow and thrive on their own terms. The Welfare Act ensures that children and parents receive the right help at the right time. Garðabær has clear procedures in place if there is suspicion of violence, neglect or risky behavior.

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