THE CONTEXT OF YOUR INITIATIVE

The right to movement and work.

We had many beggars in the streets and some people saw this as a problem. We saw the possibilities and offered them work instead. We analysed the legal aspects (taxation, work permits, insurances et.) of migrant workers, and adapted our system to existing regulations.

THE ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT AS PART OF YOUR INITIATIVE

Emmaus labour pool can be hired for all possible assignments : gardening, repairs, painting, cleaning, etc. For the client it costs 20 euros per hour incl. VAT.

The workforce is employed by Emmaus Åland. This will ensure legal certainty and security for both employees and clients.

The goal is to help temporary guest workers and migrants, but also to integrate more people in the Åland labour market – in both cases a way to contribute to a better life.

WHO IS INVOLVED FROM OUR GROUP?

One Emmaus employee is coordinating the labour pool. Around 50 persons have been employed for shorter or longer assignments.

WHICH PARTNERS ARE YOU WORKING WITH ON THIS INITIATIVE?

We are working in cooperation with local enterprises, private persons, and with tax and social authorities.

Labour pool logo.

Vasile and Constantin, from Romania.

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Now, we try to integrate the Labour Pool more closely with all other Emmaus activities on the Åland Islands. And we continuously try to get more customers so that we can employ more migrants and other persons in need of a job.

SHARE YOUR PROGRESS AND THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THIS INITIATIVE

The initiative started in October 2015. Since the start we have had around 200 customers and 50 employees. Some of the employees have moved back to their home countries and some have settled here. Some have moved onto full time employment on the regular labour market.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD ANY INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR INITIATIVE?

The Labour Pool example has got intention in local and national media. One organization in Helsinki is about to copy the model.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROSPECTS?

We need to get more customers to make it financially sustainable both for Emmaus and the employees, who need to get more working hours. We also need to support the workers in many other matters, such as contacts to authorities and living.