Minister Anna Tenje visited Erikshjälpen Second Hand in Växjö

A ministerial visit with a focus on social interventions

Monday September 15th Anna Tenje, Minister for Elderly and Social Insurance, visited Erikshjälpen Second Hand in Växjö to take part in a presentation about our social mission. Erikshjälpen Second Hand Hand has a comprehensive social mission where the goal is to be an attractive practice coordinator for both the individual, the organisations and society.

- " Erikshjälpen Second Hand plays an important role in supporting people who are excluded and giving them a way back into working life. Both I and the government know that civil society interventions mean a lot for integration and rehabilitation," says Anna Tenje.

An insight into the business and its social interventions

During her visit, Anna Tenje learned more about how Erikshjälpen Second Hand in Växjö functions as both a meeting place and a workplace. Operations Manager Jan Niklasson explained that commitment and social interventions go hand in hand. Volunteers, interns and employees together create a warm and welcoming workplace.

The store in Växjö employs a total of around 120 people, including 26 employees, 17 trainees and around 80 volunteers.

Sustainable consumption - Anna chooses second hand even during royal visits

The tour also highlighted the importance of sustainable consumption. The Minister, who often shops second hand, emphasized that in a role where entertainment is part of everyday life, environmentally conscious choices are particularly important.

- I don't want to wear the same dress too many times, but I still try to be environmentally conscious if I can. Second hand is a good option, and at Erikshjälpen I know that the money goes to good things. Several of my dresses from here have been to the Royal Palace," says Anna Tenje.

Civil society plays an important role

The ministerial visit ended with a reflection on the important role that Erikshjälpen Second Hand plays in creating pathways back to working life. As a meeting place for personal development, job training and social networks, the store in Växjö shows how civil society interventions contribute to integration and rehabilitation.