Göteborg Launches Emergency School Program for At-Risk Middle School Children
Göteborg introduces an emergency school program to combat gang recruitment among middle school children.
- • Emergency school program for middle school children at risk of gangs launched in Göteborg.
- • Jonas Attenius stresses the need for timely long-term support to break cycles of violence.
- • Program offers support for a month with reassessments for ongoing help.
- • Social preschool teams to help mitigate school failure and social exclusion starting January.
Key details
Göteborg is taking decisive action to address rising violence among youth by introducing an emergency school program specifically for middle school students at risk of gang recruitment. This initiative emerges amid increasing concerns regarding violent incidents affecting younger demographics in the city.
Municipal council chairman Jonas Attenius emphasized the urgency of timely support to combat the cycle of violence and recruitment into criminal networks. He acknowledged in a press release that "there is no quick fix" to these societal issues, urging a need for sustained intervention. The new program will complement an existing emergency school for high school students, continuing the effort to support vulnerable youths and their families.
The emergency school for middle schoolers will offer a comprehensive support system, lasting approximately one month. During this period, educational and family interventions will be provided to help tackle the immediate risks of gang involvement. After this initial phase, the child's school placement will be reassessed, although ongoing assistance will persist, ensuring that children maintain access to necessary resources.
Additionally, starting in January, social preschool teams are set to be established to assist preschool educators in addressing the risks of school failure, mental health challenges, and social exclusion among younger children. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a support system that nurtures healthier environments for all children in those communities most affected by violence.