• The Social Program is a service for youth aged 10–17 exhibiting risky behavior. It lasts up to 10 months and aims to: 

Provide a safe and developmental environment for youth;
Identify the child’s individual needs; 
Support the child in detoxification and social rehabilitation.

Also offer learning opportunities, developmental activities, and leisure options. 

The facility at Nõmme tee 99 houses three 10-bed units. Work with at-risk youth is effective only in the long term, so participants stay for the entire academic year. The program is voluntary for the recipient.

Each child’s case is handled by the centre’s team in collaboration with a network of specialists, which may include: Staff from Tallinn Children’s Hospital psychiatric clinic; Child welfare specialists from city districts; School representatives (usually class teachers or social workers). 

Children are referred by district child welfare specialists, based on behavioral or addiction issues. If a child or parent wishes to join, they must first contact the welfare specialist.

At the beginning of the program, a network meeting is held to set goals for resolving the child’s issues in cooperation with the family, welfare specialist, and school. At the end, another meeting discusses future plans and the need for aftercare.

Key Activities

Educational Work:

• Developing personal skills through daily activities
• 24/7 supervision
• Guidance in forming safe habits and coping with behavioral challenges
• Daily hygiene routines and weekly deep cleaning
• Structured daily schedule and routines
• Internal and external hobby activities to broaden horizons

Psychological Support:

• Individual and family counseling
• Group discussions led by social pedagogues and psychologists
• Therapeutic groups for addiction and behavioral issues
• Parenting workshops to support child development
• Tailored education based on special needs

Learning:

• In cooperation with Ristiku and Karjamaa Basic Schools
• Teachers conduct lessons in small classes at the centre
• Daily study support and homework assistance

Medical Care:

• Initial health check upon arrival
• Ongoing care by the centre’s nurse
• Additional tests and referrals as needed
• Medication adherence monitored
• Parents or guardians usually accompany children to doctor visits

All activities are interconnected and work toward shared goals. Parents can call or visit their child every evening.