Social service staff shortage in five out of six local authorities
An assessment carried out by state provincial offices of the state of primary services indicates that the lack of enough trained social workers in the sector is a problem affecting the whole country. According to the survey of municipalities carried out by the state provincial offices, only a sixth of Finnish municipalities have enough fully qualified social workers.
The assessment allows for the fact that the social sector has yet to benefit from new arrangements made in social work training in vocational colleges. It also confirms the need for measures already being taken by the MSAH to reform the structure of staff responsibilities.
According to the MSAH, there needs to be a clarification of division of labour between staff holding high school and vocational college qualifications.
Further information: Ms Pirjo Sarvimäki, Senior Office, tel. +358 9 160 73136