Minister Anna Tenje visited Erikshjälpen Second Hand in Växjö

A ministerial visit with a focus on social interventions

Monday, September 15 Anna Tenje, Minister for the Elderly and Social Security, visited Erikshjälpen Second Hand at Växjö to attend a presentation on our social mission. Erikshjälpen Second Hand has a comprehensive social mission with the goal of being an attractive internship coordinator for individuals, 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 serves 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 work together to create a warm and welcoming workplace.

The store in Växjö employs a total of about 120 people, including 26 staff members, 17 interns, and about 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 minister’s visit concluded with a reflection on the important role that Erikshjälpen Second Hand plays in creating pathways back to the workforce. As a hub for personal development, job training, and social networking, the store in Växjö demonstrates how the civil society organization interventions contributes to integration and rehabilitation.