If Something Unexpected Happens – Here’s How to Get Help
As a WWOOF member, you are usually independent and stay in touch with your host through the messaging system on our website. But sometimes unexpected situations occur, and it’s important to know what to do.
Emergency Services
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112. This connects you with SOS Alarm, who will direct your call to the appropriate emergency services.
For non-emergency police matters, call 114 14.
For non-urgent health issues, you can visit a health center (vårdcentral). If you are from another EU country, it is helpful to carry your EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) in case you need to show it.
Your Safety and Wellbeing
At WWOOF Sweden, we work to create positive and respectful exchanges between hosts and WWOOFers. Hosts are expected to provide a safe environment, suitable accommodation, adequate food, and clear guidance for volunteers.
As a WWOOFer, you also have a responsibility to look after your own safety. Before confirming a stay, take time to read host profiles carefully, ask questions, and make sure the placement feels right for you.
Staying Safe While WWOOFing
A few simple precautions can help ensure a positive experience:
- Read host profiles carefully and ask questions before confirming a stay.
- Find out what the accommodation arrangements and daily schedule will be.
- Let friends or family know where you are staying.
- Keep in regular contact with someone you trust.
- Make sure you have a backup plan and enough resources to travel onward if needed
- Trust your intuition. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, seek support and leave if necessary. You are never obligated to stay.
If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable
WWOOF is a community built on trust, openness, and mutual respect. If you experience any serious concerns, please let us know so that we can take appropriate action.
If a situation arises that is connected to your WWOOF stay and cannot be resolved between you and your host, you are welcome to contact us at WWOOF Sweden. Phone number: +46 737 756 012 or info@wwoof.se
WWOOF Sweden does not act as an employer or guardian, but we take concerns about safety, wellbeing, harassment, exploitation, discrimination, and inappropriate conduct seriously.
If You Are Concerned About Someone Else
If you believe another WWOOFer, host, child, or other person may be at risk of harm, please take action.
- Contact WWOOF Sweden.
- If appropriate and safe, check in with the person and ask if they need support.
- If there is an immediate risk to anyone’s safety, contact the emergency services by calling 112.
Reviews and Communication
The review system is one of the most important tools in the WWOOF community. Reviews help future WWOOFers make informed decisions about where to stay, and they help hosts improve the experience they offer.
We encourage all members to leave honest, constructive reviews after every stay – especially when the experience did not fully match expectations. At the same time, we strongly encourage you to communicate with your host during your stay if concerns arise.
Many misunderstandings can be resolved through a simple conversation. Expectations, cultural differences, communication styles, and daily routines can vary greatly from person to person. Speaking up when something is bothering you gives both you and your host the opportunity to find a solution together. Learning how to express your needs, concerns, and boundaries is one of life’s most valuable skills – and WWOOFing can be a wonderful opportunity to practise it.
Honest communication during a stay and honest reviews afterwards help keep the WWOOF community strong, transparent, and welcoming for everyone. Of course, if a situation feels unsafe, inappropriate, or cannot be resolved through communication, you should contact WWOOF Sweden and consider leaving the placement. Phone number: +46 737 756 012 or info@wwoof.se