I'm Amazed by Finland’s Worker Support System

Yesterday I joined "Newcomer Information Session about Working Life" organized by International House Helsinki (IHH) online. In 2 hours, we went through 6 sections covering many aspects of work - from job search, labour laws, to retirement pension. What impressed me was that workers in Finland have such a strong support system at any stage in their working life. At least on paper.

Following are my favorite slides.

1. A sweet reminder to take breaks during job hunt by IHH Employment Coach Salli

It's so nice to see how much Finns value mental health. Even in job seeking phase, residents here get solid support from local Employment Services. Job hunting is indeed stressful and getting help from the local authority feels so much more encouraging. The well-know Integration Training for immigrants is a part of these services.

2. Useful list of places to seek help for workers in Finland

This list indicates which organization tackles which kind of problem in the workplace. I would say this is the most important piece of information in the event. All workers should be aware of their rights and support net. The "blood berry" incident of labour exploitation exposed in 2024 could have been avoided or stopped earlier if the immigrant workers were more informed, I think.

3. How social security in Finland works

As you can see from the chart, you already get access to many types of support only by residing legally in Finland. Employment Services mentioned above are among these.

After a life-long working in Finland, you receive retirement pension even when you move to another country and don't have Finnish citizenship. If I don't get it wrong.

And lastly, not a slide but a screenshot of my "glorious" moment

Fun Quiz to recap the event on Kahoot — and I took 1st place!

Now I know exactly what to do next. I felt so grateful for this insightful event that I searched for Salli's LinkedIn to thank her and the team.

I'll update on my next move.