Integration
This section examines how community sponsorship empowers Ukrainian refugees to support one another and gain local backing for their initiatives. By blending community sponsorship with the diaconal principle of conviviality, several communities in Finland, Latvia, and Estonia have created environments where Ukrainian refugees can effectively support their peers. Through real-life stories, we explore how local networks identify skilled refugees, connect them with those in need, provide essential training and resources, facilitate networking opportunities, offer ongoing support, and celebrate the achievements of these community-driven efforts.
What Else Do You Need to Know?
Here are some key points that mentors should consider to effectively support Ukrainian refugees in Latvia, Estonia, and Finland:
Understanding Local Support Systems
Latvia: The online portal “Ukraine to Latvia” provides information on arrival formalities, residence permits, work opportunities, and more. Also see https://livelatvia.lv/.
Estonia: The Kriis website provides comprehensive information for Ukrainian war refugees coming and staying in Estonia. Also see https://settleinestonia.ee/.
Finland: The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) and their resources for refugees, including housing, education, and employment support. Also see https://infofinland.fi/.
Access to Healthcare
Can you find and share at least one reliable link or contact person where refugees can get up-to-date information on accessing healthcare services, including mental health support?
Language and Cultural Integration
Can you locate and provide a link to a resource or group offering language courses and cultural orientation programs for refugees? Why is it so important? Read more here.
Employment and Education Opportunities
Can you identify and share a link to a site or contact person for information on job opportunities and educational programs available to refugees?
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
Can you find a reliable source or contact person for information on refugees’ legal rights and responsibilities, including how to apply for temporary protection or asylum?
Promote involvement in local community groups and social activities to build a support network and reduce feelings of isolation.
Can you discover a social network group or community organisation where refugees can connect with others? Read more here.
Financial Assistance
Inform refugees about available financial aid, such as one-off employment-starting benefits or monthly cash assistance.
Can you provide a link to a resource or contact person who can give information about financial aid available to refugees, including benefits and assistance programs?
Childcare and Education for Children
Provide information on enrolling children in local schools and accessing childcare services.
Can you locate and share a link to information on enrolling children in local schools and accessing childcare services?
Know where to find news in Ukrainian for Ukrainians: in Latvia, try the LSM website, in Finland, go to the YLE website, and, in Estonia, try the Postimees website.
Encourage refugees to stay informed about changes in policies and available services through reliable sources and community networks.
Please review all chapters of this website and complete the tasks to fully understand the essential knowledge and skills you need, as well as how to care for yourself, in order to effectively support and assist a refugee from Ukraine.