Specificities in the Guidance of Refugees from Ukraine

Abstract

Between March and June 2022 a study was conducted with social workers working with refugees from Ukraine as a result of the war. The research involved 30 respondents aged 30-55 from family centers operating in Slovakia and Poland. For this research, qualitative research methodology was used. Standardized interviews were used as a tool for data collection. The results of the research have generated three main themes with further specified sub-areas of concern: what experience the staff of the family centers have in receiving refugees; the needs associated with the situation of receiving refugees since the outbreak of the war; how the staff perceive guidance when working with refugees from Ukraine. Staff at the family centers reported several types of problems in relation to migration from Ukraine. Based on their answers, it can be concluded that the range of problems exceeds both the possibilities and competences of a single worker or guide. For systematic support, a multidisciplinary approach with the involvement of experts from different fields, e.g. social workers, psychologists, lawyers &/or clergy, is needed. An individual and flexible approach should be kept in mind, given that refugees may have different backgrounds, experiences and needs. It is not easy to ascertain the actual capacities of the assistance centers. Further similar investigations focusing on the actual practical impact could help to improve the effective assistance provided to refugees from Ukraine while simultaneously increasing its quality