Interdisciplinary Support Network for Children in Vulnerable Situations

“The children are our future, but they are also our present. They are here and now, and they need us today,” said Valdimar Víðisson, Mayor of Hafnarfjörður, as he opened a workshop in Kaplakriki attended by 150 professionals working together to support local children.

Representatives from the Metropolitan Police, the District Commissioner, the Capital Area Health Service, Hafnarfjörður Municipality, and the town’s upper secondary schools signed a cooperation agreement to promote the well-being of children in vulnerable situations and to reduce the risk of repeated violence.

It takes a village

The mayor emphasized that no single institution can ensure a child’s well-being, it requires people communicating, sharing information, and responding early.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and here in Hafnarfjörður we want to make sure our village is united, attentive, and radiates warmth and safety,” he said. “Children in vulnerable situations may have experienced violence, neglect, or find themselves in circumstances where they need all of our support. It is our duty to act.”

He added that the past months have been spent developing procedures and collaboration frameworks: “This is not just paperwork, it’s the foundation of genuine cooperation that can save a child and change a life for the better.”

Early response is key

Halla Bergþóra Björnsdóttir, Chief of Police of the Capital Area, signed the declaration on behalf of her office: “Collaboration is crucial for children in vulnerable situations so that cases are handled in the best possible way,” she said, stressing the importance of early intervention and efficient communication.

Valdimar underlined that the cooperation agreement is not a formality but a promise: “A promise that we will listen, learn from each other, and create a framework where no one falls between the cracks.” The agreement ensures ongoing follow-up and coordinated services. “No one should stand alone, not a child, not a family, and not a staff member trying to do the right thing.”

Stronger together

Stella Björg Kristinsdóttir, Head of Leisure and Prevention at Hafnarfjörður Municipality, said workshops like this one are vital to strengthen the support network for children in vulnerable situations. Contact lists have been established, and processes mapped out.

“This day gives us the opportunity to listen to everyone working with children and to see how we can do even better. We want to be a community that catches children who are struggling and we do that best when we work closely together,” Stella said.