You have the right to feel well

According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, you have the right to be healthy, eat nutritious food, have an adequate standard of living and live in a safe environment – in general, to feel well.

Your parents or other guardians must ensure that these rights are fulfilled. If your parents are unable to care for you, the State of Finland must intervene and offer you care and protection.

What does this mean?

If you become ill, you have the right to receive care and attention and, if necessary, medical treatment. To feel well, you must have healthy, nutritious food to eat, sufficient sleep and opportunities to exercise, play and spend time outdoors.

The right to feel well also means that if you feel sad or worried about something, you can talk to a trusted adult – they have a responsibility to help you. Wellbeing also includes small, everyday things: closeness, safety and hugs.