🤝

Community Support and Resources

Community programs and resources available to help newcomers settle safely and securely.

Sections

1. Emergency Services

Sweden has a robust emergency response system, and Örebro is no exception. In case of emergencies, you can rely on the following services:

Police (Polisen)

  • Contact Number: Dial 112 for emergencies and 114 14 for non-urgent matters.
  • Services: Crime reporting, lost property, public safety, and community policing.
  • Location: Örebro Police Station is located at Järnvägsgatan 3, 703 62 Örebro.
  • Costs: Free for emergency services. Administrative fees may apply for certain non-urgent services (e.g., background checks or permits).
  • Procedure: For emergencies, call 112 and provide your location and details of the incident. For non-urgent matters, visit the police station or call 114 14.

Fire and Rescue Services (Räddningstjänsten)

  • Contact Number: Dial 112 for fire-related emergencies.
  • Services: Firefighting, rescue operations, and fire safety education.
  • Location: The main fire station is at Aspholmsvägen 1, 702 27 Örebro.
  • Costs: Emergency response is free. Fire safety inspections or consultations may have associated fees.
  • Procedure: In case of a fire, evacuate the area and call 112 immediately.

Ambulance and Medical Emergencies

  • Contact Number: Dial 112 for medical emergencies.
  • Services: Ambulance services, first aid, and emergency medical care.
  • Costs: Emergency medical care is free for Swedish residents and EU citizens with an EHIC card. Non-EU visitors may need to pay, depending on their insurance coverage.
  • Procedure: Provide details of the medical emergency and your location when calling 112.

2. Healthcare and Crisis Support

Örebro has a well-developed healthcare system that includes support for mental health, domestic violence, and other crises.

Örebro University Hospital (Region Örebro Län)

  • Location: USÖ, Södra Grev Rosengatan, 703 62 Örebro.
  • Services: Emergency medical care, trauma care, and specialized treatments.
  • Costs: Free for Swedish residents and EU citizens with an EHIC card. Non-EU visitors may need to pay unless covered by insurance.
  • Procedure: For emergencies, go directly to the hospital or call 112 for an ambulance.

Kvinnofridslinjen (National Women’s Helpline)

  • Contact Number: 020-50 50 50 (24/7, free of charge).
  • Services: Support for women experiencing domestic violence or abuse.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: Call the helpline for confidential support and guidance. They can also connect you with local shelters and resources in Örebro.

BRIS (Children’s Rights in Society)

  • Contact Number: 116 111 (for children and young people).
  • Services: Counseling and support for children and teenagers facing abuse, bullying, or other issues.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: Children can call directly for confidential support. Adults concerned about a child can also contact BRIS for advice.

Crisis and Trauma Center (Kriscentrum)

  • Location: Kriscentrum Örebro, Slottsgatan 10, 703 61 Örebro.
  • Services: Counseling and support for individuals and families dealing with trauma, violence, or crises.
  • Costs: Free for residents.
  • Procedure: Contact the center directly to schedule an appointment or receive immediate support.

3. Community Policing and Neighborhood Safety

Örebro places a strong emphasis on community policing and neighborhood safety initiatives.

Community Police Officers (Närpoliser)

  • Services: Local police officers work closely with neighborhoods to address safety concerns, prevent crime, and build trust.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: Contact your local community police officer through the Örebro Police Station (114 14) for non-urgent matters.

Neighborhood Watch Programs (Grannsamverkan)

  • Services: Residents collaborate to improve neighborhood safety by sharing information and reporting suspicious activities.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: Join an existing neighborhood watch group or start one by contacting the police for guidance.

4. Social Services and Support for Vulnerable Groups

Örebro’s social services provide support for vulnerable individuals, including immigrants, refugees, and the homeless.

Örebro Municipality Social Services (Socialtjänsten)

  • Location: Drottninggatan 5, 702 10 Örebro.
  • Services: Assistance with housing, financial aid, and support for families and individuals in crisis.
  • Costs: Free for residents.
  • Procedure: Contact the social services office to schedule an appointment or receive immediate assistance.

Refugee and Immigrant Support

  • Organizations: The Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) and local NGOs like Röda Korset (Red Cross).
  • Services: Legal aid, housing support, language classes, and integration programs.
  • Costs: Free for asylum seekers and refugees.
  • Procedure: Visit the local Migration Agency office or contact NGOs for assistance.

Homeless Support

  • Organizations: Stadsmissionen Örebro (City Mission).
  • Services: Emergency shelters, food distribution, and counseling.
  • Costs: Free or low-cost.
  • Procedure: Contact Stadsmissionen directly for support.

5. Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention

With the increasing prevalence of online scams, Örebro offers resources to protect residents and visitors from cybercrime.

Swedish Cybercrime Center (SC3)

  • Services: Reporting and investigating online fraud, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: Report cybercrimes to the police (114 14) or through their online portal.

Consumer Protection Agency (Konsumentverket)

  • Services: Assistance with scams, fraudulent businesses, and consumer rights.
  • Costs: Free.
  • Procedure: File a complaint online or contact their helpline.

6. Local Considerations

  • Language: Most safety and security services in Örebro operate in Swedish, but English is widely understood. Interpretation services are available for other languages.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Swedish society values privacy and personal space. Be respectful when interacting with authorities or community members.
  • Weather Preparedness: Winters in Örebro can be harsh. Ensure your home and vehicle are equipped for snow and ice to avoid accidents.
  • Public Transport Safety: Örebro’s public transport system is safe and reliable. However, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

7. Costs Overview

  • Emergency Services: Free for all.
  • Healthcare: Free or low-cost for residents and EU citizens; costs vary for non-EU visitors.
  • Social Services: Free for residents.
  • Legal Aid and Counseling: Free for vulnerable groups.

8. Key Contacts

  • Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • Non-Emergency Police: 114 14
  • Social Services: +46 19 21 10 00
  • Kvinnofridslinjen: 020-50 50 50
  • BRIS: 116 111
  • Stadsmissionen Örebro: +46 19 10 25 00

By utilizing these resources, you can ensure your safety and security while living in or visiting Örebro. The city’s well-organized systems and community-focused approach make it a safe and welcoming place for everyone.