Reckless employers' decisions threaten elderly care in Valo municipality – Dala Democrat

It is extremely indignant to see how employers in the municipality of Valo have now decided to shorten the night shift in nursing homes from 10 to 9 hours. As if this were not enough, all employees, regardless of employment level, are forced to take a minimum of vacation days. This is nothing more than a reckless and short-sighted decision that threatens the well-being of employees and the elderly.

Shortening night shifts by one hour may seem like a small change, but for night workers, it means a significant increase in stress and workload. Night work is already stressful and disrupts the natural sleep cycle. Increasing the number of shifts for night workers is a direct blow to employees’ health and well-being.

It's a shame that employers In Valo Municipality, all employees are required to take a minimum number of vacation days, regardless of their level of work. Vacation days are not just a right, they are a necessity in order to recover and maintain good health. Depriving employees of adequate rest is not only unethical, it is counterproductive. Without adequate recovery, we risk seeing an increase in sick leave and a decrease in work morale and productivity.

It's not just employees. Those affected by these decisions. Seniors living in these facilities deserve to be cared for by staff who are comfortable and motivated. When the work environment deteriorates, it directly impacts the quality of care. Seniors are at risk of receiving less care and less attention, which is unacceptable.

Economic arguments don't hold up.Employers argue that these measures are necessary to save money. But what they fail to realise is the long-term costs to employees’ health and the wellbeing of older people. A workplace that promotes health and a balance between work and leisure leads to increased productivity, reduced sickness absence and increased employee loyalty.

It's time for employers In the municipality of Valo they are reconsidering their decisions and realizing that their rash actions are not sustainable. We demand that night shifts be restored to 10 hours and that employees be given sufficient days off to recover. Only then can we guarantee a good working environment and high-quality care for the elderly.

Anna Ginger and Annika Hedin, Chief Protection Officer, Falun Municipal Department