Ankkuri Services and Violence Prevention Work in Central Finland

The need for this project is based on current evidence showing an increase in violent behavior among children and young people, concerns about the growing severity of violence, and a decline in children's sense of safety. Violence experienced and perpetrated by children and young people is becoming increasingly visible in various everyday environments.

Our goal, together with the Wellbeing Services County of Central Finland, is to establish a unified operating model across the entire Central Finland region. The model focuses on strengthening the wellbeing, safety, and participation of children and young people, as well as preventing violence and youth crime.

The Wellbeing Services County of Central Finlad is expanding the Ankkuri-model throughout Central Finland. Jamk University of Applied Sciences is developing a preventive violence intervention model for Central Finland in collaboration with children, young people, families, and professionals, while making use of existing materials and research. In practice, we organize participatory workshops, educational modules, events, and digital content addressing topics such as emotional skills, interaction and communication, conflict resolution, and safe online behavior.

Increasing Awareness and Strengthening Non-Violent Approaches

Our objective is to strengthen children's and youn g people's ability to recognize violence, resolve conflicts constructively, and act safely in various social situations. We also enhance the expertise of professionals working with children and young people in identifying violence, addressing it, preventing it, and intervening when necessary. In addition, we provide families with information about different forms of violence and practical ways to support a safe everyday life for children and young people.

Student Collaboration

We utilize multidisciplinary higher education expertise at the intersection of teaching, research, development and innovation (RDI), and regional development. Our students participate in the planning, implementation, and development of activities for children and young people as part of various study modules and project initiatives, such as Future Factory and Innoflash.

We aim to involve students from multiple fields of study, including international students enrolled in English-taught degree programmes. At the same time, we strengthen students' competencies related to violence prevention, the guidance and support of children and young people, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Funding and Project Partners

The Ankkuri- Activities and Violence Prevention Development in Central Finland project receives government funding from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health through the Health Promotion Appropriation. The project is administered by the Wellbeing Services County of Central Finland, with JAMK University of Applied Sciences serving as a co-implementer.

Project partners include the Police of Inland Finland, KRIS Central Finland Association, and the following cities and municipalities: Hankasalmi, Joutsa, Jämsä, Kannonkoski, Karstula, Keuruu, Kinnula, Kivijärvi, Konnevesi, Kyyjärvi, Laukaa, Luhanka, Multia, Muurame, Petäjävesi, Pihtipudas, Saarijärvi, Toivakka, Uurainen, Viitasaari, and Äänekoski.