Autism Foundation Finland’s Revion Project Awarded by the European Crime Prevention Network

Autism Foundation Finland’s Revion Project Awarded by the European Crime Prevention Network

When it comes to the Finnish criminal justice system, neurodivergent individuals (autism spectrum and ADHD) are in a very fragile position. Failure to recognise this group jeopardises the implementation of their legal protection, and is a risk for the misallocation of rehabilitation measures. The risks are particularly related to the specific characteristics of communication, behavior in line with social expectations, actions against one’s own interests, and stress factors related to the situation. Based on a person’s deviant behavior, incorrect conclusions may be drawn, for example, about the person’s guilt, innocence, or remorse.

Working to directly tackle this issue, in 2021, the Autism Foundation Finland (AFF) launched the Revion Project, at the heart of which is developing a rehabilitation model for neurodivergent individuals in prison, and providing support to strengthen their ability to reintegrate into society. As part of this effort, AFF has also created a screening tool to identify neurodivergent prisoners/offenders, many of whom are undiagnosed prior to incarceration.

The Revion Project adopts a comprehensive approach, engaging multiple stakeholders and offering a range of services, including:

• Individual Rehabilitation: Tailored programs for adolescents and adults exhibiting criminal behavior or other risk factors, such as substance abuse. These programs can be implemented during incarceration, after release, or preventively in outpatient care to address potential risks. They also support individuals transitioning from institutional to outpatient care.
• Training for Professionals: Specialised training for prison staff, forensic psychiatrists, police officers, and other judicial authorities who encounter neurodivergent individuals showing signs of risk behavior. The training blends research-based knowledge with practical insights from AFF’s extensive experience.
• Consultancy and Support: Professional guidance and counseling for those working with neurodivergent adolescents and adults, helping them better understand and address their needs.

Recognising its significance, the European Crime Prevention Network has awarded the Revion project with the second price during its European Crime Prevention Awards 2024! The jury praised the project for its “important focus on the target group that is over-represented in prison facilities, yet often overlooked. Additionally, the scientific base of the project as well as the work to improve professionals’ knowledge was deemed relevant for all European member states.“

Learn more about the work of the Autism Foundation Finland here.