The UK has always been home to a remarkable number of Finns and since Finland joined the EU in 1995 this number has only increased as people have relocated for work or study. It has been estimated that over 20 000 Finns live in the UK – most of them in Greater London.
The Finnish Church, which has served Finns in London since 1882, has traditionally been the the cornerstone of the Finnish community in the UK. Finn-Guild, founded in 1965, is the largest Finnish-British civil organisation in the UK with members from both countries. Alongside the Finnish Church, the Guild is the best-known connection to Finland in the UK. It offers information services to immigrants, Finnish language classes and Finnish cultural events, as well as a travel agency.
Support for Finnish businesses trading in or hoping to expand to British markets is also easily available: Finpro, the Finland Trade Centre, helps Finnish SMEs go international, encourages foreign direct investment in Finland and promotes travel to Finland. The Finnish-British Chamber of Commerce (FBCC), on the other hand, is committed to providing members with excellent opportunities for intelligent networking through exclusive business and social events.
Last but not least, the Finnish Institute in London actively promotes Finnish culture and scientific expertise in the UK.
