NEWSLETTER 2

«Improving the Skills of Social Workers Working with
Asylum Seekers and Refugees»

Second Transnational Training for Social Workers in Jonava, Lithuania 

As part of the ERASMUS+ project “ENHANCED SOCIAL WORKERS – Enhancing Intercultural Communication Skills and Competences for Social Workers in the Provision of Assistance to Forced Migrants”, the second transnational training for social workers was held in Jonava, Lithuania, on August 30-31, 2024. Social workers from both Cyprus and Lithuania participated in this interactive and engaging training session.

The primary purpose of the training was to introduce social workers to the newly developed methodology and to prepare them for piloting and applying it in their professional practice. Through innovative and practical teaching techniques, participants explored the methods in-depth, shared their experiences, and engaged in small group discussions and case studies to solve real-world challenges.

This hands-on approach ensured that participants were well-equipped to implement the methods effectively, fostering intercultural competencies and innovative solutions in social work. The training marked a significant step forward in empowering social workers to enhance their practices in diverse and multicultural settings.

Dissemination Event in Nicosia, Cyprus: Strengthening Intercultural Competencies in Social Work

On November 6, 2024, a seminar under the ERASMUS+ project “Enhancing Social Workers’ Skills and Intercultural Communication” took place at the Pedagogical Institute in Nicosia, Cyprus. This event brought together social workers, representatives from governmental organizations, and members of NGOs to focus on advancing intercultural competencies essential for effective social work.

The seminar opened with an address by the Ministry of Interior’s Asylum Seekers Service, which outlined the ministry’s policies and activities in supporting asylum seekers in Cyprus. Representatives from CODECA—the Centre for Social Cohesion, which manages refugee and asylum seeker support structures—also shared their insights. Both organizations expressed strong support for the ERASMUS+ project “ENHANCED SOCIAL WORKERS” and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with participating institutions to elevate social work practices.

The event featured an engaging presentation on the “ENHANCED SOCIAL WORKERS” methodology, showcasing the project’s dedication to equipping social workers with the skills needed to bridge cultural divides, communicate effectively, and provide supportive services to diverse communities. Anticipated outcomes and the broader impact of the project were also discussed, setting the stage for a collaborative future.

A highlight of the seminar was the inspiring testimonials from six social workers who had participated in “ENHANCED SOCIAL WORKERS” training programs in Cyprus and Lithuania. They shared personal and professional growth stories, illustrating how the training has shaped their approaches and effectiveness in refugee and asylum support roles.

This seminar underscored the critical role of intercultural communication in social work and fostered a collaborative environment for professionals committed to enhancing their practice in multicultural settings.

International Scientific Practical Conference in Kaunas, Lithuania

On November 21, 2024, an international scientific and practical conference titled “Internationality in Contemporary Social Work” was held in Kaunas, Lithuania. This significant event spotlighted the Erasmus+ project “ENHANCED SOCIAL WORKERS”, focusing on innovative approaches to intercultural communication and support for forced migrants.

The conference brought together academics, practitioners, and students to explore the impact of globalization on social work, the importance of intercultural communication skills, and strategies for addressing challenges in multicultural and diverse settings. The event featured insights and best practices from Lithuania, Cyprus, Norway, and Denmark, highlighting the value of international experience and collaboration in advancing social work.

A key highlight was the presentation by the Social Service Center of Jonava District in collaboration with partner from Cyprus’ NGO “KIBOTOS” and Social Projects Institute (Lithuania), showcasing the Erasmus+ project results. The discussions underscored the critical role of global cooperation and innovative methodologies in addressing contemporary social challenges, particularly in supporting forced migrants.

This dynamic event fostered a space for learning, dialogue, and collaboration, emphasizing the integration of international perspectives and innovative methods into the field of social work.

THE PARTNERSHIP

The coordinator of the project is the Jonava Social Services Center, Lithuania and partners the Social Projects Institute, Lithuania and from Cyprus the Pancyprian Family and Child Support Association "KIΒOTOS".

The Project is co-funded by the European Union. The European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission and National Agency cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.