Care Workers in Oskarshamn Raise Concerns Over Demanding Work Schedules and Mental Health Impact

During a recent municipal council meeting in Oskarshamn, care worker Maria Larsen expressed serious concerns about the current four-week work schedule, which entails 19 workdays and every other weekend shift. Larsen highlighted that this intense schedule leaves insufficient time for recovery, leading to increased stress among staff and some colleagues reducing their working hours. She questioned why the schedule could not be modified to 18 workdays to better support employee recovery.

Andreas Erlandsson, chairman of the municipal council, responded that work scheduling is governed by collective agreements and legal frameworks rather than political decisions. However, to address these issues, a temporary council has been formed to focus on staffing and the work environment, aiming to develop a deeper understanding and find solutions.

Other council members, including Leif Axelsson and Mathias Karlsson, acknowledged the widespread dissatisfaction among care staff, stressing that inadequate schedules risk increased turnover and sick leave. They advocated for greater flexibility in work hours to make care jobs more attractive and sustainable. Rolf Lindström, chairman of the social committee, emphasized the need for healthy work schedules to retain staff long-term, advocating for a unified schedule that promotes well-being and retention until retirement.

This discussion underscores the challenges faced by care workers in Oskarshamn, revealing how demanding schedules impact mental health and staff sustainability, while local authorities explore collaborative solutions to improve working conditions.