An association representing early childhood educators in the capital has submitted a statement to the Helsinki city council, expressing their dissatisfaction with substitute practices.
Earlier this year, the City of Helsinki introduced cost-saving measures restricting the hiring of substitute staff at daycare centres, allowing it only under strict conditions.
In most cases, approval from a regional manager is required to bring in a substitute to cover staff absences.
An internal directive sent to daycare managers outlined that staff shortages should primarily be covered by transferring employees between daycare centres.
In addition, planned absences are not always covered in advance either, and the city has not informed parents about the changes to the substitute staffing system.
