Finland is set to open a new high-security child welfare facility for children and young people involved in serious violent crime.
According to information obtained by Yle, the closed rehabilitation unit is due to open in Liminka, North Ostrobothnia, at the start of 2027.
The facility will be adjacent to the state reform school (Valtion koulukodit) already operating in Liminka. Reform schools provide care and rehabilitation for children and young people who cannot be accommodated by other child welfare institutions.
Kids placed in reform schools are usually considered a danger to themselves or others, and often involved in serious criminal behaviour.
Currently, the strictest form of child welfare placement is in special care units, where movement and phone use can be heavily restricted. Such placements can last up to 90 days.
The new unit would allow even broader restrictions than are currently possible in child welfare care, with the aim of tackling serious youth violence and improving rehabilitation.
Residents of the facility will not be allowed to leave freely, and fences will be built around the site.
The closed unit will have capacity for 20 young people.
