Youth

Youth is a significant period of development that is often associated with confusion and experimentation. Puberty begins and the young person may begin considering their own identity. Here you can find information on health care, City services, education and studies, and Kela’s benefits and services for young people with disabilities or special support needs.

Are you interested in receiving coaching?

Did you know that you have the right to receive coaching if major changes take place in your life situation? You can also receive coaching in order to learn new skills or for a housing trial, for instance.

On this site

First information on a young person’s illness or disability

For young people, living with an illness or disability can introduce additional turmoil at an already sensitive time of their lives. You can talk with health care professionals about any issues weighing on your mind.

Monitoring of an adolescent’s health and development

Like all young people, you are provided with the health care you need, regardless of your special needs. However, many things change when you turn 16.

City services for young people and their families

Helsinki's basic services are available to everyone, including you and your family. For example, you can access support from the family social work services.

Compulsory education and studies after comprehensive school

You should start thinking in good time about a suitable place to study after comprehensive school. You can get special support for your studies.

Kela benefits and services for young people

When you turn 16, you will stop getting the benefits you claimed as a child. You will still receive support, but you need to re-apply for it. There are several forms of support and rehabilitation available.

Things to keep in mind

The disability allowance for persons under 16 years of age ends when you turn 16. If you are receiving a disability allowance as a person under 16, you should apply for an adult’s disability allowance well in advance of your 16th birthday.

Your parents are your guardians from when you are born and manage your finances, among other things, until you turn 18. As an adult, access to your bank account is transferred to you. However, if you are unable to take care of your assets and interests, your parents may continue to manage your finances. It is therefore advisable to take care of matters related to guardianship, power of attorney and access to accounts in good time before you turn 18, so that access to your funds is not completely cut off.

Read about guardianship and continuing power of attorney on the Suomi.fi website (Link leads to external service)

Get moving!

Helsinki's Sports Services provide a range of opportunities for guided adapted physical activity for residents of all ages who need special support. Our skilled sports instructors modify and adapt exercises and activities so that everyone can move according to their own fitness level. You can also bring your own assistant to all groups. You can sign up for classes at any time during the season if there are spots available.

External resources

Disability benefits (Kela)

Information on Kela's disability allowances and services.

Mental health support for young people

If you are worried about your mental health, remember that help is quickly available. On this page you will find information about how to support your own mental health and when and how to seek professional help.