Are you a neighbour, friend, relative, or colleague?
If you become aware that someone may be subjected to violence or abuse, you have the opportunity to help. You may also have a statutory duty to prevent it from happening.
All forms of violence are unacceptable. The duty to prevent (avvergingsplikten) entails a duty to avert violence that poses a serious danger to life and health, and refers to certain specific criminal offences.
It can be challenging to know when you have a duty to prevent, and how you can intervene in a way that is safe for the person concerned.
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When to avert? Violent and sexual offences that you have a duty to seek to avert
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Are you unsure if you have a duty to avert a criminal act? Ask yourself these 5 questions
Do I have to intervene?
Violence and abuse often take place in secret and without other witnesses present. If someone confides in you, or you learn in some other way that violence or abuse will occur, it is important that you listen and act.
Some situations require you to act immediately. This does not mean that you have to intervene or put yourself in danger – you can notify the police and/or Child Welfare Services. If possible, you can also bring the victim to safety – to a crisis center, for example.
Other times, you may have the opportunity to talk to the person concerned. Then you can listen and ask questions. Try to find out how serious the situation is and how quickly it is necessary to intervene. Try to find safe solutions together.
For many, it is difficult to talk about violence and abuse, especially if it has been committed by someone close to them. They may not be able to talk about it right away. Therefore, it may be necessary to ask on more than one occasion and show that you still want to help.
The duty that can save lives
What can the aunt do in this situation? (Norwegian only)
Seek advice
Contact Child Welfare Services or the police on 02800 if you are in doubt. Explain the situation and ask for help in assessing how to proceed. You can remain anonymous, and you do not have to provide any names.
If you are an adult and you are worried about a child, you can also contact the Alarm hotline for children and young people on 116 111. A crisis centre or a public health nurse can also give advice, depending on who is in danger and the urgency of the situation.