Yle asks recipients how social assistance changes affected them

Yle is seeking accounts from people whose social assistance has changed under a reform that took effect early this year.

The reform tightened eligibility rules and increased obligations for recipients. The basic amount of support can be cut by half if a person does not apply for other benefits that Kela, the benefits agency, has told them to seek. Depending on their circumstances, these may include unemployment, housing, student, sickness, parental or pension benefits.

Support can also be reduced if a recipient does not register with employment services as a full-time jobseeker.

In March, the basic amount was cut by 2 to 3 per cent for everyone aged 18 or over. For example, a single 18-year-old lost 17.90 euros a month.

Small grants now affect the amount of support. Previously, the limits were 50 euros a month for a person living alone and 100 euros for a family. Yle is asking people to share their experiences through a questionnaire.