The collective agreement negotiations for the private social services sector have been terminated by the employee side
SuPer and the other employee organisations, together with the Finnish Association of Private Care Providers (Hyvinvointiala Hali ry), did not reach an agreement on a new collective agreement for the private social services sector (SOSTES). The negotiations were terminated as unsuccessful by the employee side late on Wednesday, 28 January 2026.
For SuPer, it is vital to safeguard the overall attractiveness of the sector for both new and current professionals. As the population ages, a severe shortage of care professionals is expected, yet employers do not share this view.
“Practical nurses will continue to be needed in the private social services sector. The pay gap when compared to the public sector must be reduced. Working conditions should support wellbeing at work,” says SuPer’s President, Päivi Inberg.
Further measures will be announced later.
Negotiations affect around 72,000 Employees
Approximately 72,000 employees work in the private social services sector. SuPer is the largest employee organisation in the field. The collective agreement is negotiated by SuPer, Erto and Tehy (as Sote ry), JHL, Talentia as well as Jyty, Pro and STHL (as Salli ry) together with the employer organisation Finnish Association of Private Care Providers (Hyvinvointiala Hali ry).
The collective agreement in the private social services sector (SOSTES) is implemented in social sector service units, such as private housing services for the elderly and disabled, mother-and-child homes and shelters, home services, and various social and health care organisations.
Published in English 29.1.2026.