Rikosuhripaivystys (RIKU)

Victim Support Finland (RIKU) is an organisation based on a cooperation agreement, which has started its operations in 1994. It is maintained by the Finnish Red Cross, the Federation of Mother and Child Homes, MIELI Mental Health Finland, the Mannerheim League for Child Welfare, the Finnish Federation of Settlement Houses and the National Church Council. The operations are coordinated nationwide by MIELI Mental Health Finland.

RIKU’s main operation is to improve the position of the victim of crime, his/her loved ones and the witness of the criminal case by influencing and producing support services. We aim to operate as the arbiter and interpreter of needs on behalf of the victim of crime.

One method of influence is to participate in the work of working groups that improve the position of victims of crime together with the authorities and other third sector operators. Statements given on the position and needs of the victim of crime, training, communication, promotion of research concerning the position of victims of crime and participation in public debate are also RIKU’s main operations.

In terms of support services, RIKU offers practical advice and psychological support for those that have become a victim of crime or attempted crime, their loved ones and witnesses of criminal cases. We help the victim of crime operate according to his/her rights and we support him/her in coping with the experience of crime.

The operations are based on professionally guided voluntary work, which complements existing services while avoiding the production of overlapping services. The aim is the appropriate, humane and equal treatment of victims of crime. Services are produced as nationwide phone and online assistance services, as well as personal services at our 31 service points around Finland.