Transitional employment and its effects in Finland.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the extent and type of transitional employment (TE) work undertaken in clubhouses in Finland and to better understand the influence of transitional employment on the rehabilitation goals of clubhouse members. Secondarily, the survey examined how TE possibly led to independent work or participation in adult education.

METHODS

A survey was conducted with members of all Finnish Fountain House clubhouses who had participated in a transitional employment program from the beginning of the year 2002. A second survey was also conducted with clubhouse directors.

RESULTS

Study results provide evidence that TE-participation leads to an active lifestyle and increases social inclusion, but it does not lead to permanent employment.

CONCLUSIONS

Both members and leaders reported that transitional employment periods helped to evaluate an individual's working ability, but did not lead to steady employment in the open labor market.