Hannah Lunden advocates for equitable assistance in Norway’s disabled support system

Hannah Lunden suffered a spinal injury that left her paralyzed following a horse-riding accident ten years ago. Despite needing significant assistance for daily tasks, she leads a vibrant social life and works part-time, demonstrating resilience and determination. At 24, the energy and laughter that surround her life in Agder are infectious.

In her workplace, while participating in a meeting via Teams, Hannah attempted to send a heart symbol using her fingers; due to her condition, she required help from her assistant. Her experience is similar to approximately 4,000 others in Norway who receive user-controlled personal assistance (BPA), although there are stark contrasts in the programs offered by different municipalities.

Hannah’s hopes of relocating to Kristiansand for her psychology studies were met with dismay when she discovered that she would have to cope alone for 19 hours each day. The local municipality’s support proposal only allows for social activities for three hours a week, prompting concerns about isolation.

Currently, Hannah lives in Gjerstad and enjoys considerable support—receiving 16 hours daily of assistance—affording her a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. If she were to move to Kristiansand, her assistance would be reduced to less than a third of her current level.

In response to Hannah’s appeals regarding assistance discrepancies, Kristiansand’s health director claimed that they must adhere to necessary and reasonable care services, which differ from those granted in Gjerstad. This stark contrast has raised alarms with health authorities and political representatives, who emphasize the need for equity in support services nationwide.

The situation has led to Hannah putting her prepared apartment in Kristiansand up for sale, adding uncertainty to her future aspirations. The differences in assistance highlight broader issues within Norway’s support system for individuals with disabilities, prompting calls for reform and fair access to services.