Huostaanotto

Huostaanotto (Finnish for placing a child under protective care) is a measure within Finland's child welfare system that involves removing or placing a minor outside the family home to safeguard their safety, health, and development. The decision is taken by social welfare authorities and, in many cases, supported by a court order.

Grounds for huostaanotto include threats to the child’s wellbeing due to neglect, abuse, family violence, caregiver incapacity, severe parental substance abuse, or other unsafe conditions. It may be used when no acceptable alternative arrangement can be provided in the home.

Process: a social worker conducts an assessment of the child and family. In urgent situations, a temporary or emergency placement can be arranged quickly. The guardians have a right to be heard, and a plan is prepared outlining return or permanent care, with ongoing reviews.

Types of placement include foster care, group homes, or institutional care. Placements can be short-term or long-term, depending on the child’s needs and safety. In some cases, permanent arrangements such as guardianship or adoption are pursued when family reunification is not feasible.

Rights and responsibilities: the child’s best interests guide decisions. The child should be informed and allowed to participate in decisions affecting them. Guardians have the right to information, and social services must ensure proportional, timely procedures and provide avenues for appeal.

Review and outcomes: placements are regularly reviewed, typically every several months, to assess safety and progress. The overarching goal is to return the child home when possible, or to establish a stable long-term arrangement if reunification is not feasible.