Empowering communities: Social integration through employment at Pipelife Finland

Pipelife Finland's production facility in Haparanda employs a dedicated team of 36 people, manufacturing a diverse range of piping solutions for infrastructure and buildings. Additionally, the plant collaborates with Haparanda Municipality and the Gripen Social Psychiatry Day Center, extending its employment outreach to provide meaningful opportunities for persons with mental health conditions or from disadvantaged backgrounds.

_{Social responsibility in action}

Social responsibility is at the core of Pipelife's ESG commitments, encompassing care for the company's employees, local communities and the environment. For over 20 years, Pipelife Finland has partnered with the Gripen Social Psychiatry Day Center, creating employment opportunities for people with mental health conditions.

Gripen's workshops offer a supportive environment where participants engage in work tailored to their interests and abilities. The initiative combats social isolation, builds confidence and fosters personal development.

The workshop participants assemble components such as bends, branches and gaskets for plumbing systems. Pipelife supplies the materials and custom-designed tools needed for assembly while providing management, training and support. 

"The municipality of Haparanda initiated this idea, recognizing the value of offering engaging activities for Gripen's patients," explains Kimmo Heinänen, Plant Manager at Pipelife Finland. "However, this collaboration benefits everyone. The participants find purpose and pride in their work, while the factory gains a reliable, high-quality local assembly process."

_{Quality, dedication and shared success}

The partnership between Pipelife and Gripen is built on mutual trust and shared goals. Experienced social workers oversee each workshop, stepping in as needed to ensure participants feel supported and production goals are achieved.

"This is a safe environment where people can rebuild their lives at their own pace," explains Anna-Paulina, Program Supervisor at Gripen. "Some start with just a few hours a day, gradually increasing as they gain confidence and capability."

"Every item assembled undergoes quality control, and the lack of complaints speaks volumes about the commitment and dedication of Gripen's team," adds Heinänen. 

The proximity of the Haparanda assembly site to the day center is another key to the workshop's success. This arrangement has streamlined logistics and strengthened the sense of community between the plant's full-time employees and workshop participants. 

"It's heartwarming to see the joy this opportunity brings to participant's lives, which extends beyond working hours. For example, our annual Christmas dinner is always a highlight for everyone involved," says Heinänen.

_{A safe place to learn and grow}

Gripen's workshops aim to equip participants with the skills and confidence needed to reintegrate into society. Apart from assisting in production tasks, participants can also practice various crafts. This flexibility ensures everyone finds their place, with each participant receiving a tailored plan to support their individual goals.

Beyond its collaboration with Gripen, Pipelife Finland has also partnered with Haparanda Municipality to create job opportunities for long-term unemployed persons and migrants, facilitating their social integration while fostering the acquisition of professional and language skills.

_{Work that matters} 

For participants of both programs, the chance to learn and contribute to specialized production processes has a profound impact. "These jobs make them feel valued and connected," says Heinänen.

By creating employment opportunities for all, Pipelife Finland exemplifies how businesses can foster inclusivity, sustainability and community well-being — one meaningful job at a time.