“The discussion is intended to review the different actors’ situational assessment of young people’s wellbeing. We will also examine recent observations, the work being done to support youth, and the explicit steps necessary for enhanced cooperation. The goal is even closer collaboration to promote and accomplish our common goal – the wellbeing of children and young people. Helsinki must be a safe city for everyone. Now is the time for us to work together to turn the tide of worsening youth malaise and crime. We need all actors and families to join in this effort,” said Mayor Vartiainen.
The wellbeing of young people and issues such as juvenile delinquency have been the subject of much public debate of late, with many participants focusing on crimefighting and appropriate punishments. Yet preventive measures and strengthening young people’s feelings of social belonging are also key. The scheduled discussion will consider how cooperation with families can also be further strengthened.
Early intervention is key
In Helsinki, several groups work together to firmly respond to many forms of juvenile delinquency and marginalization. The City of Helsinki, the Helsinki Police and several other organisations play a key role, as do multiple social actors and young people’s families. We have jointly recognized that it is essential to intervene in the issue at an early stage with a multidisciplinary response, investing in those measures deemed most effective. The goal of the joint round table discussion is to further intensify the cooperation between these different actors, as well as to identify how the city could better work with its partners to prevent these kinds of problems.
The City of Helsinki works in close and direct cooperation with the Helsinki Police Department. City management meets with senior police department members regularly and operational measures are coordinated to optimally address the general security situation. The city has also engaged in long-term cooperation with several other organisations and stakeholders. These parties play a strong role in preventive work and thus the prerequisites for success.
The discussion called by the mayor seeks to evaluate the current situation from the point of view and target group interactions of the different attendant groups. It also will review recent experiences and consider how things are developing, with the aim to focus and target preventive activities. Participants will also consider how to intensify current levels of cooperation and mull potential challenges and solutions.