In the city of Stockholm, there are around 8,000 people who are in need of a so-called good man to get help with, among other things, finances, contacts with authorities and legal matters. They get help from about 5,500 good men, but the need is greater and another 350 good men are needed.

- This is partly due to the fact that we are becoming more inhabitants in the city and that the proportion of older people is increasing. We have also tightened the supervision of our good men, which means that some have to stop and some choose to stop themselves, says Håkan Andersson.

Higher interest during the refugee flow in 2015

The desire to be a good man has also declined in recent years. During the influx of refugees in the autumn of 2015, the City of Stockholm received approximately 2,000 reports from people who could imagine being good men. So far this year, the figure is around 100.

- There is an interest in becoming a good man, but some are hesitant right now during the covid-19 pandemic because they may be older themselves and may belong to a risk group, says Håkan Andersson.

Campaign should attract more

Right now, two different investigations are underway about whether the task of being a good man for someone should be handled by professionals instead of private individuals - a state investigation and an employee of the city. Meanwhile, the city is now investing in an outdoor campaign to attract more people to become good men.

- It is important that those who need good men get it so that their finances are in order - so they get money for food and clothes and that the rent is paid. Also that they get help with housing, help with applying for grants and appealing decisions - make sure that your rights are met, quite simply, says Håkan Andersson.