Being a parent with an intellectual disability can be hard. You may need help to understand things, plan your day, or care for your child. But in Sweden, this does not mean you are a bad parent.
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This article explains what happens in Sweden if social services think your child is not safe, and what LVU means.
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What is LVU?
LVU means the Swedish Care of Young Persons Act. It is a law in Sweden. Social services can use this law if they think your child is in danger or not getting enough care.
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With LVU, social services can take the child to live somewhere else, like a foster home. This can happen even if you say no.
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Can I lose my child because I have an intellectual disability?
No, not automatically. Having a disability does not mean your child will be taken away.
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But social services may check how things are at home. They will see if:
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Your child is safe and well cared for.
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Your child’s health or development is at risk.
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You get support from services, but it is not enough.
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Do social services have to help me first?
Yes. In Sweden, social services must try other help first. They can offer:
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Help at home
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A support person
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Parenting advice or training
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LVU is only used when nothing else works, and if the child is not safe.
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What can I do to keep my child?
If you have an intellectual disability and want to care for your child, it is important to:
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Say yes to support and help.
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Join meetings with social workers.
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Show that your child is safe, fed, and loved.
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Ask for help when you need it – that is okay.
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What happens if LVU is used?
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Social services do an investigation.
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They may take the child to a foster home.
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The case goes to the administrative court (förvaltningsrätt).
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You get a free lawyer (public counsel) to help you.
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The court decides if the child should stay in care.
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Can I get my child back?
Yes. In Sweden, if your child is taken with LVU, you can get your child back. You must show that you:
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Get the right help.
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Can care for your child in a safe way.
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That your child is not in danger anymore.
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The case is checked every 6 months by social services. You can also ask them to stop the LVU and bring your child home.
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Summary
Having an intellectual disability does not mean you are not a good parent. In Sweden, social services must try to help you before they take your child.
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LVU is only used if your child is not safe, and no other help works. With the right support, many parents can keep their children – or get them back.
