In Finland, the demand for help regarding domestic violence has surged to unprecedented levels, with nearly 12,000 individuals assisted through the services of the Ensi- ja turvakotien liitto (ETKL) last year. This marks a notable increase from just under 8,000 people seeking help annually at the beginning of the decade. The trend is reflective of broader societal changes in attitudes towards domestic violence and an increased willingness among victims to reach out for support.

Seinäjoen turvakoti (shelter) has particularly felt the impact of this rise, with a significant increase in the number of clients observed last year compared to previous years. Specifically, the shelter was at full capacity for 57 days, indicating a high demand for its services. Sari Tumelius, the executive director of the South Ostrobothnia emergency and shelter association, highlighted that 2022 surpassed previous years in client occupancy, reinforcing the shelter's role as a critical resource in the community during times of increasing distress.

Furthermore, the shelter reported an all-time high in the number of stay days accumulated, totaling 3,600 days, which is over 1,000 more than the previous year. This increase can be attributed to the fact that clients are staying longer, with the average duration of stay rising from a week or two to an average of 16 days. The complexities of family issues seem to be increasing, necessitating more time for resolution and support, signaling a potentially troubling trend in domestic situations across Finland.