Security in Family Life: The Role of Family Social Work

Family Centre Series: Part 6

What is family social work? Who are the people involved?

Family social work encompasses a range of services. These services include home help, family work, social counselling, social work, and support person activities. Our team consists of social workers, social counsellors, instructors, and family workers.

What are the primary objectives of family social work?

Our main goal is to assess the family’s situation, regardless of whether the family or someone else contacts us, and then, based on this evaluation, to take the appropriate actions. The focus is on enhancing the social security of children and supporting parenthood.

How do you assess a family’s needs?

First, our team considers whether the family’s situation requires a more detailed assessment or if they can proceed with the service they need right away.

The detailed assessment is called ‘service needs assessment’. It involves a thorough examination of the family’s situation and, with their permission, possibly contacting other people who are involved in their lives, such as preschool or school staff. The aim here is to identify the most beneficial forms of help and support for the family.

What happens after the assessment? What kind of support can the family get?

If the family and the professionals agree that the family needs a certain service, we set goals for this service. We then partner with the family and start working towards these goals together. The intention is for our team to support the family through a segment of their journey, empowering them to eventually continue independently.

As a resident of Western Uusimaa, whom should I initially contact for support?

You can find the contact details on the Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County’s website, luvn.fi. Search for the services for families.

How much does it cost?

Services at the family centre are generally free of charge. An exception is the home help service for families with children, which has a fee, except for families engaged with child welfare services or those receiving regular social assistance. You can find information about client fees on the Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County's website, luvn.fi.

What is the typical number of meetings for a family?

The number of meetings varies, and it can range from a single session to long-term intensive work. The frequency and duration of these meetings are always planned in collaboration with each family.

Is it necessary for the whole family to attend?

At least initially, our staff would like to meet all family members. However, not everyone has to be present at the same time. During the service needs assessment, we will develop a tailored plan. This plan will identify the appropriate services and the family members who should be involved. The plan is created together with the family.

When do experts recommend seeking support?

You are advised to contact family guidance and counselling services even for seemingly minor everyday issues. These services can provide practical advice for daily challenges, possibly negating the need for a more extensive process. At the same time, families can discuss their specific situations with professionals, discuss the next steps, and learn about available services.

Can a family simultaneously receive help from both family counselling and family social work?

Yes, a family can simultaneously receive support from both family counselling and family social work if such an arrangement is deemed beneficial and practical. Family counselling services are voluntary, and service plans are always developed in collaboration with the family.

What types of assistance are available at family centres?

Family centres offer help with a wide range of challenges faced by families with children, from minor to major issues. Services available at family centres include child and maternity health clinics and family centre meeting points, but also services that require a referral, such as rehabilitative speech and occupational therapy for children as well as children's psychology and mental health services. Child welfare professionals also work within family centres.

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This article is part of our series on family centres. In this series, we will explore the services and activities that Western Uusimaa family centres offer to families with children.