Kiruna Municipality Introduces Innovative Dog-Friendly Recruitment Strategy for Healthcare Workers
Kiruna municipality's new dog-friendly initiative aims to attract healthcare workers this summer.
Key Points
- • Kiruna municipality allows staff to bring dogs to work to attract summer recruits in healthcare and social services.
- • The initiative has generated numerous applications from qualified healthcare professionals.
- • Dogs are believed to create a calming and joyful environment for both staff and clients.
- • This approach aims to improve the work environment and daily life for employees and clients alike.
In an effort to attract more personnel for summer positions in healthcare and social services, Kiruna municipality has launched a unique initiative allowing staff to bring their dogs to work. This program aims to address the ongoing recruitment challenges faced by the sector, while also enhancing the work environment for employees and the daily experiences of clients.
Jenny Lindberg, the municipality's social chief, reported a surge in applications from qualified candidates, including trained nursing assistants and registered nurses. "We've had a jackpot in our recruitment efforts since introducing this initiative," she remarked, highlighting the positive response from the community. The decision to implement this program was motivated by the belief that a dog-friendly environment could foster a calming and joyful atmosphere, benefiting both staff and clients alike.
The program is selectively applied in areas deemed suitable for having dogs present, ensuring safety and comfort for everyone involved. Lindberg emphasized the psychological benefits of having animals around, noting that calm and secure dogs can enhance feelings of safety, joy, and tranquility among clients. This innovative approach not only aims to improve working conditions for employees but also enriches the quality of care provided to clients, leveraging the proven positive impacts of animals in caregiving settings.