68 Addiction Cases Neglected by Uddevalla Social Services Amid Procedural Failures

Between May 2023 and May 2025, Uddevalla Social Services failed to initiate investigations into the cases of 68 individuals seeking help for serious addiction issues including alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Out of 305 applications received during this period, more than 20% were left without the legally mandated support, as reported by Sara Backman Engblom, head of the department responsible for this area. The issue was reported to the Swedish Health and Social Care Inspectorate (IVO) under lex Sarah regulations.

The investigation revealed that these individuals did not attend meetings or respond to communications, which led social services to incorrectly decide against opening investigations. However, legal requirements mandate that investigations must be initiated promptly and that applicants receive a decision that can be appealed, along with information about potential denials. The failures were attributed to a misinterpretation of the law stemming from staff turnover, a lack of clear procedures, and leadership shortcomings.

In response, Uddevalla Social Services have updated their procedures and reassigned the staff member responsible for most of the failed decisions. Despite these measures, the 68 individuals have not been contacted again due to the time elapsed since their applications; some have since reapplied successfully. This case underscores serious shortcomings in social services’ addiction support mechanisms and administrative practices in Uddevalla.