Our research project is a qualitative case study, for which data was gathered in spring 2014 through themed interviews of six people undergoing vocational rehabilitation or-ganised by Pohjois-Suomen Romanit ry (The Romani People of North Finland Regis-tered Association). The study was intended to narrate the Romani people’s experiences of vocational rehabilitation. The data was analysed using data-oriented content analysis.

The objective was to ensure that the Association will be able to, if it so wishes, utilise the results of our study in developing its vocational rehabilitation practices. We believe that our work can also be utilised by other students attending our college, other Romani people in the area, and by organisers of vocational rehabilitation activities, such as the local TE Office.

According to the study results, the vocational rehabilitation activities organised by the Association have had a significant impact on the lives of many of the interviewed peo-ple. The vocational rehabilitation activities have given rhythm and content to the lives of those interviewed, and given them fresh viewpoints and opportunities through newly learned skills, study or work.

The study reveals that there is a clear need for vocational rehabilitation, for instance to ensure that students complete their compulsory education. Vocational rehabilitation should be developed to better meet the needs of our Romani clients.