A total of 196,000 children in Sweden go to a school where there have been shootings in the local area – and even though most of the shootings took place outside school hours, there is great concern about how it affects the children.
The children can be psychologically affected and this can interfere with their schooling and academic results, says Anna Grill, principal at Fröslundaskolan, who is also a guest on this evening’s Aktuellt.
Above all, however, it can lead to the children becoming isolated, she says.
– The children cannot cycle to a handball practice or go out to play football with their friends. They become isolated at home because the parents don’t dare to let them out, she says.
Important with increased coordination
The problems extend all over Sweden, but are more common in the areas that the police classify as vulnerable. However, it is important not to be too alarmist, says Carin Götblad.
Instead, it is important to work with the facts, increase coordination between the police, the school and social services, she says.
– The more information, facts and that you work together, the more stable and safer it will be, she says.
In addition, the children must be reached at an early age.
– When people stand with weapons in the street, then it is already too late. Then you shoot. We have to get to these children much earlier, emphasizes Götblad.