Government Budget Cuts Threaten Personal Assistance Services

The future of personal assistance services is currently in jeopardy due to significant budget cuts announced by the government. This decision raises concerns about the sustainability of these essential services for numerous individuals who rely on them for their independence.

Personal assistance is a fundamental right and a crucial element for the autonomy of thousands of people. The government's budget proposal for 2026 has been met with severe criticism as it includes only a modest increase of 1.5% in assistance compensation, raising it to just 347.70 SEK per hour. This increment fails to account for the rising costs faced by service providers and is perceived not as an improvement but as a cutback.

In real terms, this meager increase means that personal assistance services are being effectively starved of necessary funding. With wage growth in the broader economy averaging 6.4% over the past two years, the question remains: how can agencies retain skilled personal assistants, provide a decent working environment, and ensure quality service with an inadequate reimbursement rate?

The implications of this funding shortfall are dire, potentially leading to:

• Decreased salaries and limited wage growth for personal assistants
• Challenges in retaining qualified staff
• Difficulty in recruiting new personnel
• Reduced opportunities for training and improvements in working conditions
• Increased restrictions on assistance-related costs
• Decline in administrative support services

Moreover, the government has retracted its commitment to implement indexing for assistance compensation starting January 1, 2026, opting instead to conduct further assessments. This is seen as a betrayal to those currently dependent on personal assistance, their families, and future beneficiaries.

To contextualize the compensation rate: what can one actually procure for 347.70 SEK per hour in today's Sweden? A haircut typically costs over 700 SEK/hour, while tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, and painters charge between 600 and 1000 SEK/hour. Even cleaning services without tax deductions hover around 500-560 SEK/hour. Yet, providers are expected to deliver qualified care, continuity, security, and adaptability at this rate.

The situation leaves many in a state of uncertainty regarding the future of personal assistance services. Immediate action is needed to ensure these vital programs are not dismantled but rather strengthened. Local policymakers are urged to advocate for the preservation and enhancement of personal assistance services, emphasizing the importance of dignity, quality, and fairness for all individuals reliant on this support.