A child does not automatically become a client of child welfare services even if a child welfare notification concerning the child is filed.
When a social welfare authority is informed of a child in need of support (for example through a child welfare notification or other contact), the child’s urgent need for support is assessed without delay. Unless it is manifestly unnecessary, the authority initiates an assessment of the child’s need for services. The decision to initiate an assessment of the need for services must be made within seven working days, and the assessment must be completed within three months. During the assessment of the need for services, the child is a social welfare client.
A client relationship with child welfare services begins if the child is found to be in need of child welfare services.
A client relationship with child welfare services may also begin in a situation where a child must be placed urgently.