Employment services to shift to local municipalities in Finland starting next year

Beginning next year, employment services will transition to local municipalities in Finland. The organization of rehabilitative work activities has already shifted from municipalities to wellness regions earlier this year, leading to significant changes in workforce services. Among the affected services is the bicycle workshop in Pori, which is set to close at the end of October, despite nearly 1,600 signatures in a petition advocating for its continuation.

The bicycle workshop has provided meaningful routines for many individuals struggling to find employment. Erik Korpela, who has worked at the workshop for over 11 years, is currently crafting his own winter bicycle. Although his official program has concluded, he plans to continue volunteering at the workshop, expressing concern about the closure. Korpela candidly reflects, “To be honest, I might start drinking full-time again. This has been my only escape from that life.”

Krista Virtanen-Olejniczak, head of the social services department in the Satakunta welfare area, acknowledges the frustration among the workshop’s patrons but remains hopeful for collaborative solutions moving forward. Acknowledging the diverse roles of individuals at the workshop, she assures that every person will receive a service needs assessment to explore new work opportunities.

Rehabilitative work is a service regulated by its own legislation in Finland. A social worker will continue to actively engage with clients, offering necessary support. Collaborations with wellness services and local municipalities will aim to find replacement activities for affected clients, such as volunteer roles in local hospitals.

As the region faces the realities of unemployment among older individuals with limited qualifications, the need for accessible services remains critical. “Our people struggle to find work. Many are over 50 and lack vocational training,” says Jari Hämäläinen, the bicycle workshop supervisor.