Lisäperhetoiminta

Lisäperhetoiminta is a concept used in Finland to describe the range of support services that municipalities provide to families that are not covered by standard child welfare and family help services. The term literally means “additional family activity” and refers to intervention programs that aim to maintain or strengthen the relationship between a child and their non‑resident parent or other close family members.

The primary goal of lisäperhetoiminta is to prevent unnecessary separation of children from their families by fostering a positive environment in which the child can maintain contact with both parents or other relatives. Services can include mediation, counseling, supervised visitation, or advisory support regarding co‑parenting arrangements. The approach is family‑centered, with a focus on collaboration between parents, the child, and social services.

Municipalities are mandated to provide lisäperhetoiminta when a child’s well‑being is at risk or when a family is experiencing conflict that threatens the child’s welfare. The service is typically offered free of charge and operates within the broader framework of Finland’s child protection laws. Families may voluntarily seek help or be referred by a child welfare officer.

Critics argue that the availability of lisäperhetoiminta varies between local authorities, potentially creating inequities in access to support. Nevertheless, the concept is widely regarded as a proactive tool designed to reduce the need for more invasive interventions such as home placement or adoption.