Perheneuvonta

Perheneuvonta is a municipal service in Finland provided by social services to support families with children in managing everyday life, parenting, and family relationships. The aim is to prevent problems from escalating and to support the well-being and safety of children. The service is confidential, typically free of charge or low-cost, and available to residents of the municipality.

What it offers includes individual counseling for parents or guardians, family or couple sessions, parenting guidance and courses, help with domestic conflicts, child behavior issues, school-related problems, guidance on child welfare matters, and, if needed, mediation during separations or divorces. Some municipalities also offer home visits or group activities.

Access to perheneuvonta is typically through the local social services department or a dedicated perheneuvonta unit. Referrals can come from healthcare professionals, schools, or through self-referral. An initial intake interview is conducted to assess needs and set an action plan. The service collaborates with other authorities and services, such as education and child welfare, if there are safety concerns.

Impact and scope of perheneuvonta include support for families across various life situations, including parenting, child development, couple relationships, and transitions such as separation. It aims to empower families, strengthen parenting skills, and coordinate with services to prevent the escalation of problems. It is not a substitute for child protection measures when there is risk; instead it complements those services by offering early support.

In the Finnish welfare system, perheneuvonta is one of several preventive services focusing on family welfare.