Social services from infancy to old age
Social services in Helsinki aim at promoting a socially balanced city, which is jointly developed by City agents, citizens and other players. No one should be left behind to cope by their own means alone at times of need.
The City of Helsinki serves residents in various needs of life at all ages. The services are meant to secure the prerequisites for healthy development of children and young people. They support adults to function and bear responsibility for others, and they ensure safe and dignified life for the elderly. The services are organized by the Helsinki City Social Services Department.
All families with children under school age are entitled to municipal day care either at a day care centre or in family care. Families are also entitled to support for private child care and care at home.
Various housing and home care alternatives are available for the elderly and people with disabilities. They have access to special transportation services and recreational activities.
Municipal services are available in crisis situations, which include matters involving child wellbeing, paternity, child support, substance abuse, economic hardship, homelessness and long-term unemployment.
A variety of social services in Helsinki are also supplied by various organizations.
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