Satakunta welfare area proposes service fee increases and potential layoffs due to budget crisis

The leadership of the Satakunta welfare area is set to propose an increase in service fees, the introduction of charges for phone consultations, and the initiation of negotiations for potential layoffs. This initiative is linked to budgetary savings and the search for additional revenue for the upcoming year, with a necessary savings target of approximately €90 million.

Significant cuts have already been implemented in the welfare area this year. Due to its financial situation, the region has come under the scrutiny of the Ministry of Finance.

According to Kirsi Varhila, the director of the welfare area, there are plans to eliminate funding for work allowances for people with disabilities, minimize family caregiver payments, and seek further savings from occupational health services and employee well-being benefits.

Negotiations for potential terminations are prompted by the extension of care guarantees and a reduction in caregiver-to-patient ratios. These proposals were presented to regional politicians this week and will be discussed further in the decision-making process later on.

Varhila believes that these decisions will be challenging for policymakers, particularly as regional elections are also scheduled for next year.