"For the Benefit of the Child" process was launched in Kotka in 1995, when the local police, social and health authorities found that children and youth were having more and more problems. These problems have manifested themselves in an increased use of intoxicants and crime. The systems were not able to respond early enough so preventive measures were required.

The length of the process was set at a total of ten years. The process aims at supporting and improving the way children, the young and their families are coping with life, and reducing crime and use of intoxicants. The target group comprised about 180 children, born between 1989 and 1990, and their families selected from two residential areas in Kotka. When the process was started, the children were 5 and 6 years old.

The process concentrates on supporting the inhabitants' own resources and reinforcing their own positive networks and on creating new networks. The other important issue is developing the multi-professional work of employees involved. The practical work is carried out by multi-professional regional teams, which support, develop and follow the progress of the process. The teams are also responsible for arranging training and research.