Facilitating Access to Essential Integration Services in Finland : Guide Leaflet

Abstract

This development-based thesis aimed to create a comprehensive guide leaflet for essential integration services in Finland, specifically designed to assist international healthcare students and professionals during their initial months in the country. Undertaken in collaboration with Fintrust Company, the project sought to promote support for newcomers, benefiting both the target audience and the company itself. The thesis encompassed a written report and a practical guide leaflet, supported by a theoretical exploration of immigrant integration dynamics, challenges faced by newcomers to Finland, and the significance of cultural competence. Information for the guide leaflet was meticulously formatted from service providers' websites and subjected to evaluation based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. The "Welcome to Finland" guide leaflet serves as a comprehensive resource for accessible integration services. The front page features links to community centers in the Helsinki metropolitan area and promotes conscious and sustainable living. On the back of the leaflet, the integration process is outlined in three sequential stages: pre-arrival preparation with essential mandatory services linked, services available upon arrival, and post-settlement support in Finland. Each stage is designed to meet the unique needs of international healthcare students and professionals, while also providing valuable insights for all newcomers to Finland. The findings underscored the pivotal role of integration team support, with Fintrust's comprehensive assistance spanning from university applications to post-arrival guidance. The evaluation highlighted the critical importance of pre-existing knowledge and collaborative efforts for a seamless transition into Finnish society. This study underscores the indispensable nature of accessible integration services and advocates for concerted collaboration between service providers and integration teams. The guide leaflet emerges as a valuable resource in facilitating this integration process, offering essential information and guidance to international healthcare students and professionals navigating their entry into Finnish society.