SKR proposes independent inquiry to strengthen financial coordination

The Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SALAR) is criticising the way in which the financial coordination (FINSAM) currently works. Despite a recent analysis by the Swedish Social Insurance Agency, SKR believes that the efforts are not enough - and that a new approach is needed.

”This is not good enough, resources are not used efficiently”, says Anders Henriksson, President of SKR.

The need for an independent investigation is highlighted as urgent. Collaboration between government agencies, regions and municipalities is not working as it should - resources could be used more effectively and the law should therefore be reviewed.

Few receive centralised support

Many people with complex rehabilitation needs currently do not receive coordinated support from the authorities. SKR points out that ”the regulatory framework is too complicated and co-operation is lacking”. In addition, the needs of society have changed significantly since the early 2000s, when FINSAM was introduced.

At the same time, the labour market has become tougher, and the Swedish Public Employment Service has closed many of its offices. Despite this, only just under 24,000 people have received individualised services via coordination associations in 2024.

SKR wants a new direction

SKR proposes that an independent investigator be commissioned to review how collaboration between municipalities, regions and the state can be improved. Clearer roles, simpler rules and more people benefiting from the coordinated efforts are needed.

Henriksson believes that greater benefits for the individual can be created if the associations have a clear mission to relieve the parties, but that this must not lead to bureaucratic overload or to the municipalities bearing the responsibility alone.

Can change lives

Finally, he emphasises that collaboration is not the solution to all problems, but can be crucial for some:

”Co-operation between the Swedish Social Insurance Agency, the Public Employment Service, the municipalities and the regions is not the solution to all individuals” unemployment. But for some people who are in need of coordinated rehabilitation to work, coordinated efforts may be just what is needed. And it can be life-changing."

Read the full article HERE.