Reykjavík City plans to pay for psychological services for individuals who were housed at Thorvaldsensfélag Vöggustofa from 1974 to 1979 due to past grievances experienced by the children.
The city of Reykjavík is set to provide funding for ten psychological sessions for individuals who were placed in the Vöggustofa Thorvaldsensfélagsins nursery between 1974 and 1979. This decision follows a report on the nursery's operations, which, while not conclusively determining that the children suffered maltreatment, highlighted several shortcomings in care during that period. Several individuals affected have also petitioned the Prime Minister for just compensation, reflecting a broader call for accountability and acknowledgment of past wrongs.
The initiative to offer psychological services is part of a series of measures approved by the city council in response to the findings of the reports conducted by two committees assessing the nursery's history. The first committee examined operations from 1949 to 1973, while the second focused on the later years, identifying significant issues that affected the well-being of the children. The move to provide therapy aims to address the mental health needs of individuals who may still be struggling with the effects of their early experiences.
In summary, this action indicates a growing recognition of the need for mental health services for those impacted by systemic issues in childcare facilities in Iceland's past. It also raises questions about the responsibility of institutions in caring for vulnerable children and the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical grievances through appropriate compensatory measures.
