Transport Services: Planning Disabled Travel Must Become More Flexible

The ability for people with disabilities to travel should not be dictated by their welfare region, yet current practices vary significantly, impacting genuine choice. A new law introduces a "travel budget" model for mobility support, allowing funds to be allocated based on individual needs rather than a set number of trips. This offers greater flexibility in planning journeys.

This travel budget is intended as a voluntary option alongside existing services, not a replacement for them. Essential services like centralized transport, fixed-route taxis, escorts, and other necessary assistance must remain available for those who require them. The West Uusimaa welfare region plans to implement the travel budget service in 2026, following highly positive feedback from a "travel wallet" pilot program.

Given the success in West Uusimaa, the article questions why other regions are not preparing similar flexible models. The welfare region reform aimed to ensure equal services and reduce health disparities across Finland. However, if differences in service provision merely shift from municipalities to welfare regions, this goal is undermined.

Equality does not mean identical services for all, but rather the opportunity for each person to access services suited to their specific situation, regardless of location. Therefore, the travel budget should be a viable option in all welfare regions, with amounts and implementation tailored to regional costs and individual needs. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health should lead national efforts to establish minimum principles for this model, while welfare regions should collaborate with disability councils, users, organizations, and transport providers.

The right of people with disabilities to live ordinary lives, engaging in work, study, socializing, and hobbies, should not end at a welfare region's border. A proven successful model should not be limited to a few regions.