Kukunori’s GFP (Guided Functional Peer support) model is once again crossing borders – this time making its way to the United Kingdom. The first peer-led facilitator training sessions have already kicked off, including a cross-border songwriting collaboration between Finland and Wales.
The GFP model originated in Finland and has been gradually adapted for international use in recent years. Now, the concept of community-driven and peer-led Culture Houses is taking root in East London and Wales, in partnership with Community Music Wales and Chisenhale Gallery.
“Our collaboration began in 2023, and since then, we’ve been developing ways to adapt the model through visits and workshops,” says Sampo Riskilä, Project Manager of Kukunori’s Roso Production, who has been actively involved in the UK partnership with CMW and Chisenhale Gallery.
Community Music Wales (CMW) runs inclusive music workshops for people of different ages and backgrounds, especially in marginalized communities. Meanwhile ,Chisenhale Gallery integrates contemporary art and participatory practices into the everyday lives of young people and mental health service users in East London.
“What connects us is a shared set of values: creativity, community, and the opportunity to find one’s voice with the support of a peer group. The GFP model fits perfectly into this environment,” says Markus Raivio, Executive Director of Kukunori and lead of GFP’s international expansion.
The GFP model’s UK launch became tangible in April 2025 with a training session in Cardiff. Participants included staff from Community Music Wales, Chisenhale Gallery, and Brawd – a men’s mental health organisation – alongside a group of new peer facilitators.
The training focused on the core principles of GFP and the use of digital creative tools. During the day, an international, truly cross-border song verse was born – as participants from Helsinki, Tampere, London, and Cardiff co-created the beginning of a new piece via remote collaboration.
“In just over an hour, we composed the verse remotely. The collaboration felt natural and energizing right from the start. At the end of the training, participants received certificates,” Sampo says.
In eastern London, the initiative is being built from the perspective of young people in collaboration with Chisenhale Gallery.
”It really speaks to some of the work that we’ve been doing over the last two years with artists and young people. And it’s something that we’re fascinated to learn about and apply to some of our approach”, says Social Practice Curator, Seth Pimlott.
Young artist Becky is eagerly anticipating the launch of the Culture House:
“I’m really excited about the idea of creating a space where young people can experiment and improvise. It feels like the opposite of traditional art education – and that’s exactly why it holds so much potential.”
Community Music Wales also has future plans already forming:
“We’re thrilled about this collaboration and hope to expand the GFP model more widely across Wales. We look forward to working more closely with Kukunori – both locally and internationally,” says Executive Director Hannah Jenkins.
The expansion of the GFP model into the UK is part of Kukunori’s long-term internationalisation strategy, which also includes initiatives in Kenya and the Nordic countries. The model has received significant recognition in Europe, including selection for the EU’s Best Practices for Mental Health portal and a Good Practice award from GAMIAN-Europe, a major European mental health advocacy network.
“Working in the UK shows that community-based, participatory, and peer-supported culture work resonates across borders. It offers a way to promote wellbeing that is meaningful to participants – whether they’re in the Kenyan countryside, the scenic landscapes of Wales, the fast-paced streets of London, or a small town in Eastern Finland,” Markus says.
