Eight municipalities have received funding to initiate a new type of nursing home, part of a government reform allocating DKK 120 million to the elderly care sector. Minister for Senior Citizens Mette Kierkgaard stated that this initial distribution represents a quarter of the total allocated funds.

The new local nursing homes will operate with greater local autonomy and offer possibilities for additional services. These facilities will be owned by the municipalities but will function similarly to private nursing homes, with the option for residents to purchase additional services.

These nursing homes must be established as public limited companies and governed by boards comprising local community representatives. Minister Kierkgaard envisions these facilities catering to diverse needs and interests, such as veterans, vulnerable individuals, or nature enthusiasts.

The municipalities of Greve, Odsherred, Slagelse, Faxe, Frederiksberg, Køge, Egedal, and Lemvig are the recipients of this first round of funding. Seven of these municipalities received DKK 4 million each, while one received DKK 2.9 million.

The minister expresses hope that this is the start of a significant change in the nursing home sector. The funds were allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. She emphasizes the importance of gathering positive experiences from these initial implementations to facilitate broader adoption in the future.