What does a setlement mean?

What does setlementti / setlement mean?

• The word setlementti originates from the English word settlement / to settle, referring to settling down, adaptation, and reconciliation.
• Means to settle, referring to settling down, adaptation, and reconciliation.
• In Finland, it also refers to local member associations of the Finnish Federation of Settlements (Suomen Setlementtiliitto).

The settlement movement began in late 19th-century England, when a group of university students responded to growing urban poverty, marginalization, and slum conditions caused by industrialization. They founded community centers that offered education and support to people facing social hardship.

The first settlement in Finland modeled after those in London was Kalliola, established in the Kallio district of Helsinki in 1919. To this day, Setlementtiasunnot’s office is located in the Kalliola Settlement House.

Activities around Finland

The Finnish settlement movement employs around 2,800 professionals and is supported by over 2,400 volunteers. Its work is rooted in authentic human connection and respect for each individual.

The movement is diverse and responds to local needs. Core areas of work include:

• Child and youth work
• Senior and elderly work
• Crisis and support services
• Liberal adult education: 3 folk high schools and 13 adult education centers
• Housing services and community-based living: safe homes for all life situations
• Multicultural work and integration: support and participation for immigrants
• Volunteering and Civic activity: opportunities to influence and participate
• Cultural and recreational activities

Values ​​and principles

The Settlement movement’s values are based on community, equality, and human dignity. At the heart of our work is the belief that every person is valuable and deserves the right to participate and lead a meaningful life.

The movement is committed to being:

• A defender of equality and justice
• A bridge-builder and promoter of community
• A multidisciplinary and evolving actor that responds to the times.

The Settlement movement works to ensure a Finland where:

• Communities are vibrant and thriving
• Society is equal and fair
• People enjoy well-being throughout life.

Part of an international community

The Finnish Settlement movement is part of an international community, active in over 40 countries. Together, we are building a more just, inclusive, and humane society.

Neighbor Setlement - What do the set -up?