Crime victims have specific rights designed to protect their safety and well-being. Suppose there is an immediate or potential risk to the victim's safety or the safety of any children involved. In that case, it is important for the social worker to consider contacting the police for assistance.
Immediate crisis help and psychosocial support should be provided to the victim to address their emotional and psychological needs during this challenging time. Protecting the victim's personal data and privacy is also an important consideration.
Section 35 of the Social Welfare Act contains provisions for contacting social welfare to assess the need for support. If the person's need for social care is assessed to be obvious, the professionals mentioned in the section must direct the person to apply for social services or, with the consent of the probationer, contact the authority responsible for municipal social care to assess the need for support.
In certain situations, for example, serious violence, notification of the need for social care must be made without delay, regardless of confidentiality regulations. The article also applies to the police. The assessment of the situation is also regulated in the Child Protection Act.
By upholding these rights, the aim is to empower victims and provide them with the necessary support and resources to navigate their circumstances and begin the process of healing and recovery.