Tuulikki Hakala .

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Supporting informal care families with immigrant background in Finland

Hello, I’m Tuulikki Hakala from Finland! I work for an NGO that supports informal care families with immigrant backgrounds through our initiative called "Omaisneuvo." I began this work in February 2016, and by 2026, I will have dedicated ten years to this cause.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to engage in this work on a long-term basis. Short-term projects are a common challenge in the NGO sector, as their achievements often fade once funding ends. Effective collaboration with various stakeholders is essential for success, and building trust and mutual understanding takes time.

The Burden of Bureaucracy

When we began targeting informal care families with immigrant backgrounds, we faced a dual challenge: authorities did not recognise this group as a distinct client base, and many immigrant families were unaware they were in informal care situations eligible for societal support. While awareness has improved, significant efforts are still needed to ensure equality for these families.

The bureaucracy surrounding informal care can be more burdensome than the caregiving itself. Omaisneuvo aims to provide informal carers with clear, accessible information about caregiving, the service system, and how different forms of support interact. This empowers them to make informed decisions tailored to their circumstances. We also offer peer support in their native languages based on demand.

A key goal is to influence societal structures and services to ensure people receive the support they need. Rather than helping families merely cope with unfair conditions, we strive to advocate for a system that is equitable for all. As one authority wisely noted, support systems must not exclude those who excel at caregiving but struggle with bureaucratic processes.

Advocating for Rights

Service deficiencies often go unnoticed if clients lack the knowledge or resources to file complaints through official channels. I assist clients with tasks such as in preparation of the official complaints when they are dissatisfied with decisions regarding informal care support or disability services. This often requires professional interpreters and, when necessary, consultations with free legal experts from partner organizations. As public sector budgets tighten, service cuts are common, and access to needed support may require legal action. NGOs working at the grassroots level would greatly benefit from legal expertise - a tip for those considering further studies.

ENIEC: Amplifying Voices

I joined the European Network for Intercultural Elderly Care (ENIEC) in 2019, inspired by long-time member Sari Heikkinen, who previously served on our steering group. My first ENIEC annual meeting was in Bristol, and I value the network’s role in fostering expertise and idea exchange across Europe.

ENIEC has also strengthened collaboration among its Finnish members. Together, we advocate for issues of shared importance in Finland. Our latest initiative is the establishment of the MOI network, which amplifies our collective voice. A unified, well-crafted message is far more effective than fragmented or contradictory individual efforts.

The Joy of Collaboration

Collaboration is not only necessary but also immensely rewarding. In my NGO work, I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet clients and experts with diverse backgrounds who challenge me to expand my thinking and learn continuously. Working together toward a common goal is both impactful and enjoyable.