Increased Expertise in the Disability Services

The transition to the Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County has been a major undertaking for the Disability Services, as they have merged different services and operations into a cohesive and functional entity. 

“As of now, I can affirm that the joint municipal authorities, the regional municipalities, the transitioning services and the respective service-providing units have all been seamlessly integrated into the operations of the Wellbeing Services County. Within the Disability Services, we have managed to maintain an uninterrupted provision of services for our clients,” remarks Timo Hokkanen, Service Area Director for the Disability Services. 

In an undertaking of this scale, not everything has progressed without difficulties.

“For instance, specialised services for people with intellectual disabilities didn’t transfer as a unified entity, thus necessitating a reconstruction of client pathways in the initialisation phase. The most specialised services in Disability Services are often provided by multiple service providers. Hence, we continue to work on facilitating a seamless service pathway,” Hokkanen explains. 

Overall, Hokkanen regards the current state of Disability Services positively. The transfer to the Wellbeing Services County has actually increased the amount of expertise in the Disability Services. 

“The transition has brought us a lot of expertise from the municipalities and joint municipal authorities, some of which we didn’t always have access to before. This has absolutely enhanced our operations and benefited our clients." 

Moving forward, Hokkanen anticipates an enhanced focus on improving the consistency and efficiency of evaluating the needs of Disability Services’ clients. 

“We are committed to creating an environment for our clients that hosts the precise services they need. Our goal is to foster a life for individuals with disabilities that is as autonomous and self-defining as possible, allowing them to participate actively in their own life domains and in society at large. We work together with our clients to identify the service packages most suitable for them."

Changes that entail new services and operations are approached with discretion.

“No drastic overhauls are on the horizon. However, we're reviewing services, such as housing support, with the idea of fostering greater engagement with the broader society.  Future endeavours also include utilising digital tools with clients who are keen and would benefit from using them.” 

Hokkanen emphasizes the Wellbeing Services County's obligation to ensure equitable treatment for all its residents. 

“We are working to ensure uniformity in both assessments and services. We strive to provide our clients with predictability with regards to our actions and the structure of the service packages."

The Wellbeing Services County shares the understanding that, irrespective of the client group, each client’s situation needs to be approached as a whole. 

“Services must transcend sectoral boundaries and avoid operating in silos. Ultimately, for the end-users — our clients — the services should be seamless and tailored to meet their individual needs,” Hokkanen concludes.