Child and family organizations in Finland have expressed their dismay over a new regulation mandating that students in aftercare from child protection services must apply for student loans before they are eligible for social assistance. This requirement is seen as particularly harmful to these vulnerable youth, who often come from challenging backgrounds and have traumatic experiences, making their path to independence more difficult than that of their peers.

The change stems from a reform in the social assistance law that came into effect in early February, which prioritizes the application for primary benefits, such as student loans, ahead of social assistance. Organizations argue that this new directive is unjust, as it does not take into account the unique hardships faced by young people in aftercare, who may not have sufficient financial support through study grants or income from work.

In light of these developments, child and family organizations are calling for a clarification in the interpretation of the law to better support the needs of these young individuals. The mandatory student loan application process adds an additional layer of financial strain, further complicating their transition to independence and stability in their adult lives.