Sanctuary With Psychology Project

Sanctuary with Psychology is a project led by the University of Limerick, Department of Psychology. Contributions for our activities come from researchers and psychologists, students, educational specialists, and various support groups and volunteers. Activities and projects are focus on providing socio-psychological support to various communities. Training through workshops on intercultural competence, psychology of migration and social inclusion is available upon request. WHAT WE DO: 1. SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT Provide social-psychological support targeted at migrant groups and people working with migrant communities. To do this, we focus on facilitating the conditions for creating a safe space environment, social activities (e.g. playgroups for children, cultural exchanges, networking opportunities) and interventions (e.g. individual and group sessions and peer support group for volunteers). In particular, we focus on the socio-psychological needs of those with a refugee & asylum seeker background. We promote social inclusion and focus on bringing people together. 2. TRAINING & INFORMATION SESSIONS Conduct training and information sessions about (a) the social-psychological, political profile and needs of various migrant groups, (b) the intercultural competencies for professionals and volunteers working with migrant communities, and (c) the better understanding of the psychology of migration and trauma. 3. RESEARCH-BASED POLICY & CONSULTANCY Provide a research base for social intervention and policy while documenting and evaluating current practices and interventions. We focus on the relevant public bodies responsible for migrant integration, facilitated by the Migration and Integration Research Group, at the University of Limerick.