North Jutland firms hire workers with diagnoses amid labour shortage

North Jutland companies struggling with a labour shortfall are turning to workers with diagnoses to fill vacancies, reports DR.

Jannie Stiller, who has autism, now works at Scaniro’s warehouse in Fjerritslev after securing the job with support from Jammerbugt Municipality and the company’s director.

“I was worried about how I’d manage, but I’ve found a place where I fit in,” she said.

A new report from Aalborg University Business School projects North Jutland’s labour shortage will grow by 5.4% by 2040, nearly double the national average of 2.7%. Fewer working-age residents and youth outmigration are key factors, according to researcher Jørgen Stamhus.

Scaniro has partnered with Jammerbugt Municipality to employ people with diagnoses, a move director Keld Jensen calls a necessary step. “It’s not a full solution, but we’ve brought in skilled people who are thriving,” he said.

Jensen notes that mentorship programmes and close cooperation with local job centres are essential to support these employees.

For Stiller, the job has been transformative. “I still face pressure, but I’m getting better at handling it,” she said.