A boy at the Nereby youth home near Kungälv was isolated in a room for over three and a half days, receiving food through a hatch in the door. The isolation occurred after the boy, between the ages of 12 and 16, became agitated and began writing on the walls with a marker, and later broke a plastic plate that staff deemed could be used as a weapon.
Despite protocols requiring constant staff access – in the same or an adjoining room – to prevent isolation and allow the boy to easily call for assist, superiors instructed staff not to enter his room. This order was maintained for three days, despite repeated inquiries from staff. On the fourth day, two staff members defied the order and entered the room, finding the boy asleep and receiving him with a hug upon waking.
The incident has led to the suspension of three unit managers and one institutional manager, with recommendations for formal disciplinary action and potential criminal referral for the unit managers. Sofia Boman, the newly appointed acting head of Nereby Sis-hem, expressed regret over the situation, stating that it went against the principles of their work and that staff should be close and accessible to the youth in their care.
Boman acknowledged that recent rapid expansion at Nereby – with the opening of two fresh units and the hiring of 180 new staff – has strained resources and potentially contributed to the breakdown in procedures. The home has since provided additional training to all staff regarding solitary confinement protocols and is planning to hire an additional quality manager.
The boy has been relocated to another facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the boy being isolated?
According to an internal investigation, the boy became agitated and began writing on the walls with a marker. He later broke a plastic plate, which staff believed could be used as a weapon.
How long was the boy isolated?
The boy was isolated for three and a half days, from a Friday in December until the following Tuesday.
What actions have been taken in response to this incident?
Three unit managers and one institutional manager have been suspended. An investigation has been launched, and a Lex Sarah report was filed with Ivo. Additional staff training and the planned hiring of a quality manager have too been announced.
What steps can be taken to ensure that youth care facilities prioritize the well-being and safety of the children in their care?
