Parents of children with disabilities in Southern Karelia face terminated care agreements

Parents of children with disabilities in Southern Karelia are facing a challenging situation as their care agreements have been unexpectedly terminated. A local caregiving association has confirmed that at least ten families, particularly those with children exhibiting neuropsychiatric disorders, have had their contracts cut. One affected family is that of Janneke van Riel from Lappeenranta, who has three special needs children, including seven-year-old twins and a five-year-old.

Van Riel was the primary caregiver for all of her children until the South Karelia welfare area abruptly canceled their agreements. “It felt like a shock,” she explained, noting that all three of her children struggle with daily life without appropriate support.

Each child also suffers from a rare cell disease that leads to reactions similar to allergic attacks from various stimuli, including food, temperature changes, and stress.

Janneke has been receiving a monthly caregiver benefit of about €1,000, which has allowed her to work part-time while being present for her children. She relies heavily on respite care, but now faces the potential loss of her home as rising costs loom.

The head of social services in the region, Anu Koivumäki, stated that the criteria for these care agreements have not changed since 2021. However, as several families have had their contracts terminated without clear reasons, an investigation will be initiated.

Experts stress that children and young people falling outside these contracts must still receive adequate services and support, highlighting concerns about the increased stress that parents endure when navigating these challenges. Van Riel emphasizes the common struggle among families in similar situations, indicating a need for ongoing support rather than adjustments that may save costs at the expense of vulnerable children.