Navigating Homelessness in the Winter: Insights from Scandinavian Countries

Homelessness, once largely associated with individuals suffering from drug or alcohol addiction or mental health issues, is now a more pervasive issue in Scandinavia. With rising rent and social service cuts, even those without such challenges are finding themselves homeless. The risk of living outdoors in winter is high, with danger from robbery, assault, and exposure to harsh conditions. This article provides an overview of how Scandinavian countries, particularly Finland and Sweden, address the growing problem.

The Current Homelessness Crisis in Finland

Finland is experiencing a significant increase in homelessness, with rent rising sharply in certain areas. This year, a multitude of individuals, from those facing divorce or separation to students and unemployed immigrants, have lost homes due to financial pressures and social service cuts. One woman, for instance, expressed a fear of sleeping at shelters due to the potential for violence. The situation underscores the need for better security measures and more affordable housing options.

Addressing the Crisis: Building Affordable Housing

One potential solution is the creation of more affordable, small apartments near essential services. Poor Finns often struggle to afford a car, making access to these services difficult. Short-term housing solutions like gym memberships for showers and warmth are also increasingly relied upon. However, for the most vulnerable, the need for permanent, safe, and affordable housing is paramount.

Homelessness in Sweden: An In-Depth Look

Sweden, with its specialized social services, is another Scandinavian country grappling with the rise of homelessness. Currently, approximately 33,000 people in Sweden are classified as homeless, meaning they have no fixed address. Most of these individuals do not sleep on the streets but rather stay with friends, family, or in other temporary accommodations.

Municipal Services and Shelters

Municipalities and charities run various services for the homeless. Hostels and semi-permanent solutions are provided first, but individuals with addiction or mental health issues often require different approaches. Bigger cities have designated homeless shelters, which are surprisingly calm and quiet due to the dedication and training of the staff and the understanding of the residents.

Spotting the Homeless: A Distinctive Phenomenon

The Scandinavian approach to homelessness is distinctive. Those sleeping rough are rare, and even in winter, most seek out warm spots, such as public toilets or makeshift shelters. Social services occasionally provide emergency solutions like 24-hour bus tickets. While some homeless individuals find comfort in staying in hospitals' maintenance corridors or even in the woods with a good sleeping bag, most have a minimal amount of money to cover basic needs. This is particularly true for those sleeping rough, who often rely on the social safety net.

The social safety net in Sweden provides a basic level of support, though it is often not enough to insulate individuals from steeper hardships. This is exemplified by the availability of cheap accommodation, such as a 18.50 bunk bed with shared facilities in central locations. While these options exist, they often fall short of providing permanent, stable housing. The challenge lies in bridging this gap between emergency and permanent solutions.

Conclusion

The rising trend of homelessness in Finland and Sweden highlights the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to housing and social support. From building more affordable housing to providing more permanent shelter solutions, addressing the root causes of homelessness is crucial. As winter conditions become increasingly life-threatening, ensuring the safety and well-being of the homeless becomes a top priority.