Black-Eyed Day

The shortage of nurses has triggered a healthcare crisis worldwide. While this peril is widely acknowledged, its impact on violence against healthcare workers often flies under the radar. A Finnish study has shed light on the situation, revealing that currently, over two-thirds of healthcare workers in Finland experience violence in their workplaces.

Join the Black-Eyed Day campaign on 2 October

Tehy continues to campaign against violence that occurs in the healthcare sector. This year's campaign theme is reporting violent incidents. Take part in the #nyrkkisääntö #black-eyedday on social media on 2 October 2024.

Violence is a crime and should not be swept under the rug. Through the Black-Eyed Day campaign, we encourage healthcare workers to report all violence, whether mental or physical, to their employer. Reporting violent incidents is vital, because otherwise the statistics will indicate that there is no violence.

Anyone who wants to show their support to the theme and promote zero tolerance to violence in care work is welcome to joint the campaign.

We encourage all Tehy members and other social welfare and healthcare professionals to join in on 2 October in the Black-Eyed Day on social media.

The employer is responsible for occupational health and safety. As an employee, it is important for you to be aware that violence should not be part and parcel of your career choice.

To participate on 2 October: place a closed fist in front of your mouth and take a picture

Take a picture of yourself holding a closed fist in front of your mouth. The image symbolises the fact that we should never stay silent about violence.
Share the picture on a social media outlet of your choice and use at least the following hashtags: #nyrkkisääntö #tehy. You can also include other hashtags. Remember to tag Tehy (e.g. @Tehy_ry).
You should also attach a message to your picture, encouraging others to report all violence they encounter in social welfare and healthcare work. You can use the campaign text below or write about your personal experiences. Please do not include any sensitive information in your message.
- Campaign text (you may copy this to use in your message):
  Reporting is the best defence. Never stay silent about violence at social welfare and healthcare workplaces. By reporting incidents, you can help end violence. #nyrkkisääntö #tehy

Tehy aims to eradicate violence within the social and healthcare sector

Tehy's overarching objective is to completely eradicate violence within the entire social and healthcare sector. To attain this goal, substantial modifications are needed in both labor and criminal laws. Another crucial requirement is ensuring an adequate workforce in the healthcare sector, as the workforce shortage is a major contributor to the heightened risk of workplace violence. Employers on the other hand must place significant emphasis on not only preventing violent incidents but also establishing well-defined protocols for addressing such situations.

Workplace violence is a global issue that needs to be addressed

Workplace violence is a globally acknowledged issue and in 2019 the International Labour Organization (ILO) approved a convention to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace. Up to date Finland is yet to ratify the agreement and Tehy demands prompt action from the government.

In addition to Tehy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged workplace violence as a substantial risk within the healthcare sector. According to WHO, violence against healthcare workers not only detrimentally affects their mental and physical well-being but also jeopardizes the quality of healthcare services. This is why Tehy extends an invitation to healthcare professionals worldwide, urging them to stand together in advocating for a safer work environment. Violence should never be considered an occupational hazard.