The MSAH is responsible for family policy as well as maintaining and developing the welfare of children, youth and families jointly with other ministries.

The MSAH's scope of responsibility is particularly concerned with developing social and health services and safeguarding incomes for families with children.
The ministry also promotes the reconciliation of work and family life.

Services and benefits for families

Financial assistance for families with children

Reconciling work and family life

Developing child and youth services

The development of family services is part of the National Development Programme for Social Welfare and Health Care (Kaste)

The Ombudsman for Children supervises the implementation of children's rights
Children's are enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Finland ratified the Convention in 1991. The agreement binds the state, municipalities, parents and other adults to the implementation of children's rights in various fields.

In Finland the Ombudsman for Children oversees the implementation of the convention.

Ombudsman for Children

Development work by MSAH advisory boards

The Advisory Board for Early Childhood Learning and Care is responsible for promoting the broad based development of care and early learning for young children.

The Advisory Board on the Health and Welfare of Children monitors and guides developments related to child and youth health and welfare and related services.
Further information on child welfare
Information on Child Welfare

Mannerheim League for Child Welfare
Save the Children Finland