Substance abusers in smaller Finnish municipalities are lacking access to day centers, with North Savo's only center located in Kuopio, raising concerns about service disparities.
In Finland, individuals struggling with substance abuse face significant disparities in access to essential services based on their locality. A report by Sininauhaliitto is set to be released in spring 2025, highlighting that many smaller municipalities lack designated day centers, which are predominantly established in larger cities. This creates a substantial gap in support for vulnerable populations living in less populated areas, such as Iisalmi, which is approximately 80 kilometers from Kuopio, where the only available day center exists.
The municipal authorities in Iisalmi contend that the absence of a local day center violates their rights to accessible services. They argue that such centers should be considered legal nearby services critical to addressing local needs. The previously functioning Pysäkki association, which provided vital support to substance users, ceased operations in November. Since then, former staff and volunteers have attempted to maintain a support network in the community via sporadic meetings in church facilities.
This situation illustrates the inequities in social services across Finland, particularly affecting the most vulnerable individuals who cannot access necessary support due to geographical limitations. Advocates are calling for greater investment in services in smaller towns to ensure that those in desperate need of help are not left unsupported. The findings from the upcoming report may further inform these discussions and highlight the critical need for equal services throughout the region.
