Skip to content

Domestic Violence Team

In all healthcare institutions in Iceland, it is possible to get the services of the Domestic Violence Team.

Tvær manneskju í blómakrónu. Önnur er leið. Hin er ánægð. Þær teygja sig í áttina að hvor annarri. Á myndinni lítur út eins og þær muni haldast í hendur mjög fljótlega.

Table of contents

This page is a part of a guide to the Icelandic justice system for survivors of domestic violence.

Domestic violence team

You can get help for domestic violence in emergency departments, hospitals and health care centres all over the country, whether the offence has recently taken place or some time has passed. Nurses can assist you around the clock by calling 1700.

The team includes psychologists and social workers who have expertise in violence in close relationships. They offer education and advice.

  • The team will talk to you privately and assess with you what services you need and want.
  • All support is provided on-site or via teleconference or phone. You can get an interpreter if you need.
  • The service is provided in health institutions throughout the country, is free of charge and open to all victims, regardless of residence, economy or gender.
  • You always have the right to support, regardless of your circumstances – regardless of whether you intend to press charges or not, are addicted or are struggling with homelessness.

The Team

Social Worker

Can help you with practical issues such as financial assistance and housing, wherever you live in the country. The social worker will be your case manager in the process.

Trauma Team

Offers assistance, education and advice in processing the trauma.

Legal rights protector

A lawyer whose role is to protect your interests and provide you with assistance in the case through the legal system. You do not have to pay for the service, but the state pays the cost.

Police

You can get to talk to the police whether you are thinking of pressing charges or not. It can be good to get information about the process, your rights and even report the violation even if it is not being sued.

Follow-up

Your case manager supports you throughout the process and into other resources.

The team can also help you get to the Women's Shelter if you need a safe haven.

Medical examination

A doctor and nurse will examine you together and assess whether there’s a need to document injuries with photographs or perform other tests.
If your case goes to court, medical documentation of injuries can help support your case.

Nurse:

  • Offers emotional support and explains the examination process.
  • Performs tests and provides treatment if needed.

Doctor:

  • Asks about your injury and medical history.
  • Examines physical injuries.
  • Orders appropriate tests. A doctor responsible for follow-up will review the results and inform you if needed.

Who can see that I came in?

All healthcare staff are bound by confidentiality. Your visit and treatment are kept private. Information is recorded in your medical file, and no one outside of the healthcare system can access it without your permission.

  • If your life or a child’s life is believed to be at risk staff are legally required to notify the police.
  • You can always request a log of who has viewed your medical file.

Healthcare services