Reducing the early support offered by organisations may increase pressure on the City’s services

Helsinki’s organisations, associations and clubs reach a wide range of population groups in different everyday situations. They offer low-threshold support, activities, hobbies, peer support and opportunities for participation to many groups that public services do not always reach as flexibly.
Kuvassa järjestöt ja kaupungin järjestöyhteistyön asiantuntijat kokoontuneena Kaupungintalolle Helsingin kumppanuustorille
The photo shows representatives of organizations and the city’s experts on collaboration with organizations gathered at City Hall for Helsinki’s Partnership Fair. Photo: Vesa Laitinen

The survey, carried out by the City of Helsinki and Bondata Research Oy, examined the operating conditions of organisations and the impacts of current changes. A total of 286 organisations from six organisation types responded to the survey.

According to the results, changes are already reflected in the everyday life of organisations. A majority of respondents estimate that changes in the operating environment affect activities. In the open responses, the impacts are described as being visible, for example, in increased fees, reductions in activities, fewer participants and pressure on staff and volunteers.

The survey highlights concerns about preventive work being reduced. If the early support offered by organisations decreases, the need for support may not disappear. Instead, it may emerge later and increase pressure on the City’s services.

Read more about Bondata’s survey Partnering with Helsinki 2026