Declining birth rates are not a reason to cut back on child and family services

Proposals to reduce maternal and child health clinics (neuvola) based on declining birth rates are shortsighted and ignore the complex needs of families, according to Finnish psychologists. The argument, recently voiced by Risto Murto, CEO of the pension company Varma, suggests that fewer births automatically mean less need for these services, creating an easy target for savings. Simultaneously, there's a proposal to remove the statutory basis for parenting and family counseling to achieve savings.

However, experts emphasize that the demand for neuvola services is not dictated solely by the number of births. Instead, it's driven by factors such as risks during pregnancy and early childhood, the support needs of families with young children, and the effectiveness of the services themselves. Contrary to the idea that fewer births mean less need, the actual need for support has grown. Research indicates that many families feel they haven't received adequate help.

These clinics are more than just places for child check-ups and vaccinations; they are crucial early support systems reaching nearly all families, regardless of background. The continuity of care and the ability to identify and address problems early are key to their effectiveness. With rising first-time mothers' ages, increased mental health challenges, and growing financial uncertainty, families are facing greater well-being challenges and support needs.

Parenting and family counseling, often provided by social workers and psychologists in family counseling centers, complements the health services offered by maternal and child health clinics. Both are essential for supporting families and ensuring timely, effective help. The reduction of neuvola services during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the negative consequences: missed check-ups, shorter appointments, reduced prenatal classes, and unmet family concerns led to decreased quality and equality in services, burdening other support systems.

To genuinely support birth rates and family well-being, Finland must strengthen, not weaken, its maternal and child health clinics and family counseling services. These services are among Finland's most effective and cost-efficient, with family counseling being a unique one-stop shop for comprehensive family needs. Weakening them would be a grave error with significant future costs.