Residents express concerns over new substance dependency facility opening in Lappeenranta, Finland

Bright new surveillance stickers adorn the corner of a family’s home window in Lappeenranta, Finland, reflecting their decision to increase security. This follows the news that a new residential facility for twelve substance-dependent individuals will be opening next door, raising concerns for local residents. “It’s a bit nerve-wracking, wondering if there will be any related disturbances,” says Heli Hämäläinen. She remains unconvinced that the presence of staff from the wellness area will alleviate her worries, noting, “It doesn’t really calm me down at this point. We need to see how things develop. Let’s hope there won’t be any issues.”

The new facility is located in a green, single-family home neighborhood about 3.5 kilometers from the city center, close to a daycare and elementary school. Most future residents will be there long-term, differing from current residents in the nearby Siltala unit, where stays are short as staff assess individual needs.

The new residential area will not meet all regulatory requirements as mandated by Valvira, the Finnish National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health. Existing rooms measure just 15 square meters and lack kitchen facilities, although they will be equipped with kitchenettes and shared cooking spaces.

Concerns about the new unit have grown among local residents, who have gathered over 500 signatures to oppose its establishment, reflecting a wider stigma faced by individuals in recovery. Social worker Henna Muhonen emphasizes that her clients have felt distressed by the negative portrayal they face on social media, questioning what kind of people they are perceived to be. Meanwhile, Tiina Luukkonen, head of the wellness area, stresses the importance of successfully integrating the new unit to combat biases and misconceptions about residents.