Reports to the child welfare service

Both private individuals and public authorities can notify the child welfare services about children that may be experiencing difficulties. You are not required to have observed what you reference in your message, but you should be able to identify the source of the information. A rumour is not considered a report. The child welfare services will

• Dismiss the report if it is obviously unfounded
• Open an investigation if there is reason to believe that there is a need to take action under the Child Welfare Act 
• Dismiss the report if it does not meet statutory requirements

Public authorities are obligated to notify the child welfare services if they have reason to believe that a child is being seriously neglected.

Melde fra til barnevernet (bekymringsmelding)

See Sections 4-2, 4-3, 6-4, 6-7 and 6-7a of the Child Welfare Act.

Barnevernsloven
Forvaltningsloven

You can report to the child welfare services verbally or in writing, over the phone or in person. You may also submit your report anonymously.

The child welfare services will promptly review submitted reports and assess whether they should be followed up with investigations within one week at the latest. You will receive confirmation of receipt of your report within three weeks, except in cases where the report was obviously unfounded.