Strikes Cancelled in the Care Sector
Strikes in the private social services sector in Finland have been cancelled after negotiations led to a new collective agreement.
In Finland, planned strikes in the private social services sector have been cancelled following successful negotiations between multiple workers' unions, including Erto, Super, and Tehy. These strikes were set to begin on March 10 and would have affected certain workplaces operated by Attendo, Mehiläinen, and Esperi. The cancellation of these strikes comes after the unions reached a negotiated resolution that has now been accepted by their boards.
The new collective agreement, which will be in effect for 28 months from January 1, 2026, to April 30, 2028, includes an overall wage increase of 6.1% over the contract period, with 5.4% of that being implemented as general wage increases. Additionally, the agreement features minimum wage increases and service supplements that enhance the earnings for workers in the sector. As a result, the previously announced ban on shift changes has also been lifted immediately.
This agreement not only alleviates potential disruptions in the care sector but also indicates a step forward in addressing workers' compensation in the industry. It emphasizes the importance of negotiated labor relations and the proactive steps taken by unions to secure better working conditions and pay for employees in a critically important field that supports vulnerable populations.