Background

Refugees often experience trauma due to war and displacement, which is further intensified by lengthy asylum procedures, insecure housing, and a lack of privacy. Many remain in shelters for years, which can lead to passivity and a sense of not truly settling. Psychosocial support is often accessed hesitantly, even though it is essential for stabilization and integration.

Navigation Baden-Württemberg addresses this need. Since 2016, OlamAid has provided psychosocial support nationwide, including in shelters, schools, and community centers. Through continuous presence and established trust with refugees, more than 4,200 people have already been reached.

The Project

The project offers targeted psychosocial support and integration for Ukrainian-speaking refugees in Freiburg am Breisgau und Kehl am Rhein. This includes low-threshold counseling, group activities, and the promotion of social engagement. The intercultural services are provided through individual support and, when needed, open consultation hours at a psychosocial center, helping to reduce psychological stress and promote stability. Ukrainian refugees are especially involved in volunteer structures to strengthen self-efficacy and integration. By implementing their own projects and participating in joint social events, attendees develop personal agency and engage actively in community life.

Navigation Baden-Württemberg is funded by the Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, and Integration of Baden-Württemberg through state funds approved by the state parliament, as well as by the Caritas Association Freiburg.

Key Activities

1. Psychosocial Support
   The project provides individual support, family counseling, and open consultation hours at a psychosocial center to reduce psychological stress and promote stability. In acute crises, immediate support is offered, guiding participants through the management of traumatic experiences.‍
2. Empowerment and Engagement
   ‍Ukrainian-speaking refugees are actively involved in their own projects and joint social events. This strengthens self-efficacy, promotes social participation, and encourages responsibility in volunteer work. Participants can contribute their own ideas and actively shape their communities. Regular workshops, social events, and collaborative activities also foster encounters between refugees and the local community, allowing attendees to create positive impacts within their communities.‍
3. Training for Professionals and Volunteers
   Employees in shelters and volunteers receive needs-based training and counseling. The focus is on assessing psychological needs, developing intercultural competencies, and strengthening emotional resilience. The goal is to empower professionals and improve their interaction and communication skills with refugees.