In Espoo, situations have been seen recently that raise concern – and not without reason. In Leppävaara, Matinkylä and elsewhere, unrest has emerged, and although not everything makes the news, it does not mean the problem is not real.
This is not just about isolated cases or a lack of supervision. Behind it lies a deeper phenomenon: young people’s distress. When a young person cannot find their place at school, at home or in hobbies, they start looking for connection somewhere else. If the options are few, the street easily offers a role – and a group that accepts them.
What drives a young person onto the streets?
The reasons are diverse, but the pattern is becoming familiar. Things can be difficult at home, there is nothing to do, and many drop out of hobbies because of their cost or accessibility. Schools do not always have time to notice early enough, and getting into services can be very difficult. If the young person’s background is outside Finland, a language barrier and cultural cross-pressure may also come into play.
When some group offers a space where you can be part of something, it feels good – even if it is a gang whose direction is not constructive. The need for community is so strong that if it is not available in a constructive form, it is sought somewhere else.
This won’t be solved with the police alone
The role of the police is important, and their resources must be strengthened. But if we intervene only after a young person has already drifted into a cycle of crime, we are hopelessly late.
We need measures that carry before the situation gets out of hand:
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places where a young person can be and be met
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adults who see the young person as a whole – not as a problem
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activities that are easy to join without labels or demands
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integration that also takes into account the challenges of the second and third generation
And in particular, one thing is needed that is missing from the current system:
mental health services must be opened also to young people who use substances.
At the moment, a young person who has both mental health and substance problems can fall through the cracks – precisely when help would be needed most. If treatment begins only when the use stops, we are already many steps too late.
Young people’s distress is a sign that we need to stop and take stock
If a young person cannot find their own place, it is not only about them – but about all of us. This is not merely a security policy issue, but a message that not everything is in order.
We need honest discussion and practical solutions. Prevention is not a matter for ceremonial speeches – it is done where young people are: in everyday life, on the streets, in schools, in homes. Every young person should have the feeling that they are part of this society. If we do not offer that, someone else will – and not always in a good way.
- Espoo must be a city where everyone has the opportunity to build their life safely and with trust – regardless of background, situation or starting points.
Source: Uusi Suomi
Markku Arvekari
Digital Transformation Expert
