Dialogue on the Future of Finsam in Parliament

On 20 November, two of the parliamentary parties (M and S) together with NNS (National Network of Co-ordination Organisations) to a dialogue on the future of Finsam. All parties were invited and there was a large turnout. Most of the parties were represented and there was great interest.

The dialogue focused on how we can use financial coordination (Finsam) as a model and platform to solve more societal challenges. Long-term unemployment has reached historically high levels and mental health problems among both young people and adults are on the rise. People in need of support to get back to work often have to wait years before they receive support that is customised to their needs and circumstances. With Finsam, we can do more for more people. More people, throughout the country, can get into work with coordinated support based on research and evidence.

Anna Lexelius and Mattias Bergström (NNS) moderated the seminar.
Magnus Rödin, researcher at the Swedish Public Employment Service's analysis unit, gave a short presentation on which interventions work and what research shows makes a difference and has an effect. Emma Svensson, who is a participant in the Finsam-funded project Lumena, talked about the obstacles in the system and how concerns about compensation and finances affect well-being and opportunities to get into work.

The chairman of NNS presented the government assignment given to the Swedish Social Insurance Agency to analyse the need for a possible review of the Finsam Act (2003:1210). The Swedish Social Insurance Agency is due to report its response to the government on 2 December, and there is a great expectation of changes to the Act that will lead to the coordination associations having better conditions to help more people receive coordinated support into work.

There was a very high level of engagement in the meeting and MPs actively participated by contributing with questions and proposals for a Future Finsam.
The dialogue with politicians continues and on 5 December NNS will meet the Minister of Social Security, Anna Tenje.