On this page: What do we offer? | Supporting families | Link and guides | Contact us
Are you a caregiver?
A caregiver is anyone, of any age, who takes care of a family member, friend, or neighbour without getting paid. This care can be for someone who is disabled, ill, has a long-term health condition, or simply needs extra help as they age.
We are Oulun Seudun Omaishoitajat ry, a registered association. Our main goal is to support and guide caregivers, regardless of their age or situation.
We operate in the Oulu region and nearby areas, including Hailuoto, Ii, Kempele, Liminka, Lumijoki, Muhos and Tyrnävä.
What do we offer?
Caring for someone can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be difficult, lonely, and confusing. You don’t have to do it alone.
We are here to listen and provide expert information and advice about caregiving. We will defend your rights, help you manage your caregiving role, whether at home, at work, or elsewhere. We can also provide counseling with an interpreter if needed. You don’t have to be a member of our association or an official caregiver to get help from us. Our services are free.
People all over the world need similar basic care and support. While cultures and customs may differ, everyone needs help at some point in life. There are many caregivers in Finland, and you are not alone.
Supporting families
How to recognize a child with special needs?
It can be hard for parents to think of themselves as caregivers. Some special needs are not obvious or don’t cause daily challenges, and this can make parents feel like they have to manage alone. But help is available for all families with children with special needs. You don’t have to do it by yourself.
Every family is different, and everyone needs some help from time to time. All families who feel their child has special needs are welcome. You don’t need to be a member of the association or receive caregiver support to participate. Our services are free.
We stand by families
We help all families with children with special needs. Our activities include, for example guidance and advice as well as training on issues related to caregiving.
Our activities are open to everyone, and you can join whenever it suits you. We help with any kind of family matter — no problem is too small or too big. We offer support in many ways including parenting and family well-being. You can come to us for help with daily problems or just to talk. Counseling can also be arranged with an interpreter if needed.
Check our activities for families (in Finnish): www.osol.fi/perheille. Also in social media: Instagram & Facebook.
Links to guides in English and other languages
- Am I a Carer? First-Hand Guide to Informal Care (PDF)
- A guide for carers in simple English (PDF)
- Guides in other languages. The Association of Carers and loved ones in the capital region, POLLI, has published guides in several other languages.
- Are you a caregiver? (PDF)
Contact us!
We’re located at Isokatu 47 (street level), 90100 Oulu. Opening hours are Mon-Fri, 10.00-14.00.
You can e-mail: yhdistys@osol.fi or call us: 08 882 1690.