Integration Services

Integration

Integration services are a service package aimed for immigrants and the implementation of which is the responsibility of municipalities. The aim of the services is the make the integration of immigrants into Finnish society easier. Read more about integration here: https://www.infofinland.fi/fi/settling-in-finland/integration-into-finland 

In Ikaalinen, integration services operate as part of the employment and integration services at the Kompassi joint service point. An integration counselor helps immigrants to integrate into Finland strongly supporting the person's own efforts to promote integration.

The integration of immigrants into society is not only the work of the municipality's integration services, but also requires efforts from all sectors. The structure of public services is being adjusted to adapt to changing needs, and private actors must also be prepared to take into account customers - and the workforce - with weaker language skills. Integration services act as a supportive partner in this process of change for companies and organizations that work with immigrants on a daily basis.

Cooperation

In addition to the city's own services, local volunteers organize events and activities with an international focus. Strong partners in supporting integration include the Ikaalinen Parish, Oma Tupa Ry, Ikaalinen Karjala Society, the Royal Rangers local organization, sports clubs and many other clubs, parishes and organizations.

International Ikaalinen

Integration services also aim to highlight the international aspect of Ikaalinen through events. In June 2025, a summer intercultural event was organized at Rahkola Manor, which included performances from Ukraine, the Philippines and Japan. 

Multiculturalism is also highlighted in Ikaalinen at schools and kindergartens, for example around food culture themes, in collaboration with the central kitchen.

Language café

In December 2024, a language café was launched in Ikaalinen for immigrants, where they can learn Finnish and get support for their own language studies. The café has meetings in Olkkari, Ikaalinen parish, about twice a month, excluding the summer break. The café is organised under the leadership of integration services with volunteers from the parish and organisations. There are always several instructors who are familiar with using plain Finnish to talk to the immigrants. All immigrants are welcome at the café, regardless of age or level of Finnish language proficiency.

Schedules are announced in the Ikaalinen event calendar. https://ikaalinen.fi/

Contact information: 

Office: Vanha Tampereentie 11, 39500 Ikaalinen.

Visits by appointment; kotoutumispalvelut@ikaalinen.fi

Hanna Vilppo hanna.vilppo@ikaalinen.fi 044 730 6216  

Anastasia Raudive
anastasia.raudive@ikaalinen.fi
tel. +044 7306 264