Familjetorget is now open – a new meeting place for families in Boden

Familjetorget is jointly operated by Boden Municipality and Region Norrbotten. It brings together the municipality’s Employment and Education Department and Social Services Department with the region’s maternal and child healthcare services.

The aim is to create an accessible meeting place where families can receive support, spend time together and meet other families.

“We are here to provide support to residents who need our services, while also working preventively before problems have had a chance to become more serious,” says Municipal Commissioner Beatrice Öman.

Regional Commissioner Camilla Friberg also highlights the importance of collaboration between the municipality and the region.

“Prevention, promotion and creating a strong support network around every child – that is the mission of the family centre. And that is what we will work together to achieve here,” says Camilla Friberg.

A long-awaited opening

Familjetorget is the result of several years of work. Among those attending the opening were Beatrice Öman and Camilla Friberg.

Instead of a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, balloons were symbolically popped to mark the opening of Familjetorget. Visitors were also treated to snacks, coffee and refreshments.

Mona Holmström, Chair of the Social Welfare Committee, is pleased that Familjetorget is now up and running.

“This truly is a day to celebrate! A much-requested service has now opened, and it is wonderful to finally be up and running. I hope families with children will find it easy and welcoming to visit us and take part in what we have to offer,” says Mona Holmström.

A place for both children and adults

Familjetorget operates in a similar way to a family centre and includes, among other things, an open preschool. Families can come here for advice and support, take part in activities or simply meet other families.

Eleonora visited Familjetorget with her daughter Maja during the opening.

“Especially when you’re on parental leave, it’s really nice and enjoyable to have somewhere to go during the day,” she says.

Families’ needs will shape the services

Work on Familjetorget has been underway for several years. Christine Damström coordinated the opening and has been involved throughout much of the process. The work has included study visits and surveys among parents of young children, as well as developing the premises and the services offered.

“It feels great, and it has turned out so well. Much of the furniture and equipment has been reused or bought second-hand. We have only purchased what we really needed to buy,” says Christine Damström.

Initially, Familjetorget will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The services will then be evaluated and developed based on families’ needs and the number of visitors to Familjetorget.

“All families with children are welcome here, whether they have a particular need for support or simply have the time and want to visit. That is a real strength. The premises are also centrally located. This will help us understand the needs of Boden residents and how the services can be developed in the future,” says Johan Lund, Chair of the Employment and Education Committee.