Neighbors often prefer to remain silent about problems in nearby families, even if it may affect the health of the children living there. This conclusion was reached by social service employees who recently visited one of the families in Plavnieki (Riga). Information about possible unfavorable conditions was provided by the staff of the educational institution, reports the Degpunktā program (TV3).
Loud screams and walks with a child holding a bottle of alcohol — this is the reality of one family, according to residents of Lubanas Street. Neighbors say these people have many problems, which is why law enforcement representatives have already visited the home.
"The State Police responded to a family conflict between a mother and daughter. An internal investigation has been initiated regarding the incident," the police reported.
"I know that an ambulance took a minor girl from there. The police were there for a long time, about three hours. There is also a boy around five or six years old," a neighbor said.
The children have always been dressed and appeared well-groomed. However, one of the teenagers in the apartment may have been in a state of alcohol intoxication. The woman living in the apartment indicated by the neighbors immediately stated that there are no disturbances in that house. Nevertheless, social services also visited this address to assess the family's situation.
"The social worker assessed the family and recorded violations of children's rights. The information came from the educational institution. The family is now registered," said Riga City Council representative Antra Gabre.
If neighbors notice that there may be an unfavorable environment in a nearby family, the representative of the Riga City Council urges them not to remain silent but to report it either to the police or to the social service in their city. In Riga, a single free phone line has been established for such cases – 80001201. By calling and explaining the situation, a person will be connected with the appropriate specialist who can help resolve the issue.
"The social service may not know, as everything was fine in the family before. It's good if neighbors report and can share what they have seen," Antra Gabre added.
