On 3 March 2026, members of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) and an external expert conducted an unannounced thematic visit to the Varstveno delovni center Novo mesto (Care and Work Centre (VDC)). The purpose of the visit was to review the procedure for implementing a special protective measure.

During the visit, it was found that VDC Novo Mesto implements special protective measures involving the confinement of certain users to a single room as a last resort when milder measures are insufficient to control dangerous behaviour. Although this measure is not used frequently and usually lasts for a short period of time (generally up to half an hour), the NPM nevertheless considers it to constitute a restriction of freedom of movement, which may only occur in cases and under conditions specified by law.

Special protective measures may only be implemented in a secure ward of a social welfare institution where individuals are admitted under the provisions of the Mental Health Act. However, none of the users of VDC Novo Mesto have been admitted to the visited institution under these provisions, despite the fact that most users of the residential facilities are unable to leave independently.

During the visit, the NPM therefore reiterated the need for the legal basis for restricting personal freedom in social welfare institutions to be systematically regulated. The NPM also discussed with representatives of the visited institution possible ways of supporting users while minimising restrictions on their rights.

The NPM will prepare a report on the visit containing recommendations for improvement. The report will first be sent to the visited institution and subsequently to the Ministry for a Solidary Future. A copy will also be sent to the Social Inspectorate for information.