THL rewarded Sekasin Collective for its important work in promoting public health
The 2021 Public Health Award has been awarded to Sekasin Collective’s Sekasin chat service. The award was presented today by Markku Tervahauta, Director General of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) at the National Public Health Day. The Public Health Award is awarded for significant work to promote Finnish public health.
Sekasin Collective is co-ordinated by MIELI Mental Health Finland, the Finnish Red Cross, Finnish Federation of Settlement Houses and SOS Children’s Villages Finland.
The Sekasin chat is a nationwide discussion platform for 12–29-year-olds. The service has been provided online since 2017 and is staffed by professionals from the organisations and trained volunteers. The service is based on low-threshold support, consultation, and interaction with the young person. The chat service is available for children and young people on channels that are suitable for them and easily accessible.
“During the coronavirus epidemic, Sekasin chat has been an important support service for children and young people. In the chat, young people can discuss issues and problems that concern them anonymously and with confidence,” says Terhi Aalto-Setälä, Chief Physician at THL.
“We are very touched by this significant recognition for our work to support the mental health of young people,” says Satu Raappana, Executive Director of Sekasin Collective.
“During an exceptional year, young people’s need for support has grown even more. More than 170,000 contact requests send a clear message about the plight of young people. Our anonymous, network-based online service has also provided support and guidance in the midst of an epidemic and restrictions,” Raappana continues.
The Public Health Award was awarded this year for the seventh time. Last year's award was given to two recipients, Tekniikan Maailma (Technology World) magazine and the Finnish Society for Food Education Ruukku.
The theme of the National Public Health Day this year is children's health, with a particular focus on pre-school and primary and secondary school children. The programme can be followed online today from 9 am to 3.30 pm. After the event, a recording will be available online.
National Public Health Day 2021 programme and webcast
Further information:
Terhi Aalto-Setälä
Chief Physician
THL
Tel. +358 29 524 7437
[email protected]
Päivi Mäki
Development Manager
THL
Tel. +358 29 524 8612
[email protected]
Satu Raappana
Executive Director
MIELI Mental Health Finland and Sekasin Collective
Tel. +358 40 840 6681
[email protected]
Public Health Award (available only in Finnish)
