Theme 4 - Financial Support for Individuals and Families

 Kela Services in Finland and the Role of Digital Media in Social Work

In the modern world, financial support for individuals and families plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of people. In Finland, the social security system offers various services to support people in different life situations. One key player in this system is Kela (The Finnish Social Insurance Institution), which provides financial aid for people in need, including unemployment benefits, sickness allowances, maternity and paternity benefits, and child benefits.

In today’s digital age, the role of social work has evolved, particularly in the way professionals engage with clients. Digital media has become an important tool in facilitating social work, especially in providing financial support and counseling services. This blog post will explore how Kela's services are integrated into the digital environment and the impact of digital media on client work methods in adult social work.

Kela Services: An Overview

Kela's mission is to ensure that all Finnish residents have access to financial security, particularly in cases of life challenges such as illness, unemployment, or family responsibilities. The services offered by Kela are wide-ranging, and they include:

1. Unemployment Benefits: Financial assistance for those who lose their jobs.
2. Sickness Allowance: Support for people who are temporarily unable to work due to illness.
3. Maternity and Paternity Benefits: Financial support during pregnancy and after childbirth.
4. Child Benefits: Payments to support families with children.
5. Housing Benefits: Assistance for those struggling with housing costs.

These services are crucial in providing a safety net for individuals and families facing difficult situations.

Digital Transformation of Kela Services

The digitalization of Kela services has significantly transformed how social workers and clients interact. Previously, individuals had to visit Kela offices or submit paper-based applications. Today, a large part of the process can be done online, which has made it easier for people to access the financial support they need. Here are some key features of Kela’s digital services:

1. Online Applications and Form Submissions: Individuals can apply for various benefits, such as unemployment benefits or child benefits, directly through the Kela website. The online system has streamlined the process, making it faster and more efficient.

2. Digital Counseling and Support: Kela provides an online platform where individuals can access guidance on their financial matters and receive personalized support. Social workers and Kela staff can communicate with clients through chat, email, and video calls, reducing the need for face-to-face meetings.

3. Automated Decision-Making: Kela uses algorithms to automatically process certain types of claims, reducing wait times and ensuring that financial support reaches those in need without unnecessary delays.

These digital innovations have enhanced accessibility and convenience, making it easier for individuals, especially those in remote areas, to access the services they need.

Theoretical Material and Research on Digital Social Work

There has been a growing interest in the integration of digital media in social work, especially regarding financial support. Research indicates that digital media can play a significant role in improving the accessibility and efficiency of social work, particularly in financial support services.

Digital Social Work: Theories and Practices

One key area of research is the theory of "digital social work," which focuses on how social workers can utilize digital tools to improve client outcomes. According to a study by Hannah & Austin (2020), digital media can increase client engagement, promote self-sufficiency, and reduce barriers to accessing services. They highlight that social workers must be equipped with the necessary skills to operate in the digital space, such as proficiency in digital communication and understanding how to use online platforms effectively.

Impact of Digital Platforms in Financial Support

Research has shown that digital platforms, like the Kela website, have reduced administrative burdens for both clients and social workers. The ability to automate processes and facilitate remote consultations is seen as a positive step toward improving efficiency and reducing delays. Järvinen & Sallinen (2018) explored the potential for social work to be improved through digitalization, emphasizing the role of technology in making services more accessible and ensuring that vulnerable populations do not fall through the cracks.

Client Work Methods in the Digital Media Environment

The shift towards digital media has significantly impacted the ways social workers engage with clients. Traditional in-person methods of social work have been supplemented, or in some cases replaced, by digital methods. Some of the key client work methods used in the digital media environment include:

1. Online Case Management: Social workers can manage client cases and track progress using digital case management systems. This reduces the time spent on paperwork and increases the focus on client outcomes.

2. Video Consultations and Remote Support: As seen with Kela, social workers can conduct video consultations with clients, which is especially beneficial for individuals who live in rural or remote areas. This approach also facilitates more frequent check-ins, ensuring that clients receive timely assistance.

3. Automated Communication and Updates: Clients receive automated updates on their benefits and applications through emails or SMS. This method ensures that clients are kept informed and that there is less need for phone calls or in-person visits.

4. Social Media Engagement: Some social workers and organizations are using social media platforms to engage with clients, offering quick tips, and resources related to financial support and social services.

🌹These methods not only improve the efficiency of social work but also help break down the barriers that traditionally existed, such as geographic location or disability, preventing people from accessing the help they need.

References:

Hannah, D., & Austin, D. (2020). Digital Social Work: Bridging the Gap Between Social Workers and Clients. Social Work Journal.

Järvinen, M., & Sallinen, M. (2018). The Role of Technology in Social Work Practice: A Finnish Perspective. International Journal of Social Work.

👉By leveraging digital platforms, social workers can continue to provide valuable assistance to those in need while embracing the evolving technological landscape.

🌸By Maneesha Thathsarani🌸