What is a lack of prospects and opportunities?

It's hard to move toward the future if you can't see one.
A lack of prospects and opportunities stems from deep and complex helplessness, which develops gradually through different life situations and prevailing circumstances. There can be many reasons: no experience of success, growing up in insecure conditions, lack of awareness about available options, or absence of necessary support. Sometimes mental resources – such as the skills and knowledge gained through education – are not enough to pursue one's goals. A person might feel that certain opportunities are simply not meant for them.

Taking action becomes difficult. This doesn't mean the person lacks motivation – it means they lack the tools.

How do we prevent this?

A healthy economy, high-quality education, and access to meaningful leisure activities create opportunities, build skills, and improve overall wellbeing.

The city has many tools to strengthen residents' outlook on the future. Education is one of the most powerful ways to equip people with the cognitive and practical skills they need to continue studying or enter working life. The foundation for lifelong learning is built in basic education, which also plays a key role in social development. Professionals in schools do valuable work every day, and they need adequate resources to succeed.

By keeping class sizes reasonable and accounting for the linguistic and learning support needs of each group, teachers have more time to respond to students individually. Overcrowded or poorly designed learning environments create pedagogical challenges and increase the risk of conflict. School buildings should be planned from the ground up with input from education professionals to ensure both students and staff have the conditions they need to thrive.

• Basic education must be of high quality in every part of Helsinki.
  

The city must create an environment where young people have space to grow. That means access to hobbies, open libraries, well-maintained sports facilities, and safe adults in youth spaces. Physical activity plays a key role in young people's development and wellbeing. It supports physical health, strengthens mental resilience, and builds social skills. Sports offer a setting for interaction, identity building, and self-esteem.

• We should invest in local sports facilities where individuals can exercise independently and sports clubs can offer guided activities.

• A healthy economy is the backbone of a well-functioning Helsinki – and every council term must include smart decisions to protect it.