Module 5 – Health

5. Health

Introduction to the Health Module

Description

Health is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of overall well-being, particularly for vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied refugee minors. These children and adolescents have often faced severe disruptions in their lives, including forced migration, exposure to conflict, separation from family and economic hardship. Such experiences can significantly impact their physical and mental health, making targeted interventions essential.

This module is designed to provide a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to health that is both accessible and sustainable. It highlights the interconnectedness of physical, mental and social health and offers practical guidance on fostering well-being within refugee communities. By addressing key challenges such as stigma, burnout among social workers and the need for capacity building, this module seeks to create an inclusive and supportive environment where both minors and professionals can thrive.

Unaccompanied minors often experience trauma from their journeys and displacement, leading to both physical and psychological health challenges. Many face poor living conditions, food insecurity, lack of access to medical care and difficulties in adjusting to a new culture. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that includes medical interventions, psychosocial support and community involvement. This module focuses on fostering long-term well-being and resilience by ensuring access to healthcare services, promoting self-care practices and developing health education programs that address both immediate and long-term needs.

Aim

The primary aim of this module is to promote holistic health and well-being among unaccompanied refugee minors and the professionals working with them. By integrating evidence-based strategies, capacity-building programs and culturally sensitive health interventions, this module ensures that both minors and workers receive the support they need. The approach prioritizes:

  1. Physical health – encouraging preventive healthcare, regular physical activity and access to medical services.
  2. Mental well-being – reducing stigma around mental health and providing psychological support.
  3. Social health – fostering strong support networks and building community connections.
  4. Professional sustainability – supporting social and youth workers through self-care practices and training programs.

 

This module also emphasizes the role of early interventions in preventing long-term health issues. Unaddressed physical and mental health concerns can lead to more severe conditions that affect an individual’s ability to integrate into society, pursue education, or secure employment. By focusing on proactive measures, the program aims to empower refugee minors and equip them with the knowledge and resources needed to take charge of their own health.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module, participants will be able to:

  • Understand and implement a holistic and culturally sensitive approach to healthcare.
  • Recognize and address stigma related to mental health among refugee communities.
  • Develop and integrate self-care strategies for social workers and youth workers to prevent burnout.
  • Implement training and capacity-building initiatives that equip professionals with trauma-informed care skills.
  • Promote community-based health interventions that enhance the overall well-being of minors and professionals alike.


Participants will also be able to develop action plans tailored to the specific health needs of refugee minors in their region. These plans will consider local healthcare infrastructure, available community resources and cultural considerations that impact health behaviors and attitudes.

Holistic and culturally sensitive approach to health

Healthcare interventions for unaccompanied refugee minors must be tailored to their unique backgrounds, experiences and cultural beliefs. A holistic approach acknowledges that health extends beyond the absence of disease – it includes emotional well-being, social connections and a sense of security. This perspective allows for the creation of health programs that resonate with refugee communities and increase their effectiveness.

A culturally sensitive approach also requires sensitivity to gender norms, religious beliefs and community structures. In some cultures, discussing health openly – especially mental health, may be discouraged. Understanding these barriers and working within cultural frameworks can help create effective, inclusive health initiatives.

Addressing stigma around mental health

Mental health remains a stigmatized topic in many cultures, preventing individuals from seeking necessary support. Unaccompanied refugee minors may internalize this stigma, leading to untreated anxiety, depression or trauma-related disorders.

Key strategies:

  1. Community awareness campaigns – organize workshops, social media campaigns and community discussions to normalize conversations about mental health. Share success stories of individuals who have benefited from mental health services. And provide training sessions for community leaders to help them address mental health concerns without reinforcing stigma.
  2. Training social workers and youth workers in trauma-informed care – educate professionals on the psychological impact of displacement and trauma. Teach practical strategies for responding to distress and fostering resilience. Encourage ongoing professional development and peer learning opportunities.
  3. Peer support networks – establish peer mentorship programs where youth can support one another in discussing emotions and coping strategies. Encourage group activities that promote mental well-being, such as art therapy, sports and mindfulness exercises. Develop “mental health ambassadors” among youth groups to lead discussions and provide peer support.

 

By integrating mental health discussions into everyday activities, such as school, sports and community programs, support systems become more accessible and normalized, reducing the fear of judgment.

Additional strategies for mental health support

  • Psychoeducation workshops

Psychoeducation workshops are a foundational strategy in supporting the mental health of unaccompanied refugee minors. These workshops are designed to be age-appropriate and culturally sensitive, ensuring that complex psychological concepts are communicated in a way that resonates with diverse backgrounds. The primary goal is to educate young people about emotional responses to trauma, stress and change, normalizing these experiences and reducing fear or shame. Topics may include understanding how the brain reacts to danger (fight, flight, freeze), recognizing the signs of anxiety or depression and learning basic coping tools such as breathing techniques or grounding strategies. By equipping minors with this knowledge, psychoeducation empowers them to better understand their emotions, reduces stigma around mental health and encourages help-seeking behaviors. Facilitators can enhance effectiveness by using visual aids, metaphors, storytelling and group discussions to foster a sense of safety and community.

  • Safe narrative practices

Safe narrative practices offer unaccompanied minors the opportunity to process trauma through creative and controlled expression. Storytelling, journaling, digital media and even oral traditions can serve as therapeutic tools that allow youth to reclaim their voice and identity after experiences of loss, dislocation and trauma. These activities provide structure and emotional distance, enabling minors to reflect on their past without re-traumatization. For example, journaling can help clarify emotions and track emotional progress over time, while digital storytelling (using videos, photos, audio) allows those more comfortable with technology to create meaning through visual or multimedia formats. Facilitators should ensure that narrative spaces are confidential and non-judgmental, reinforcing trust and safety. Group storytelling sessions can also build empathy among peers and promote a sense of shared experience, fostering collective healing and resilience.

  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a structured program that integrates mindfulness techniques with principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and trauma-related stress. For unaccompanied refugee minors, MBCT can be particularly valuable because it helps cultivate awareness of thoughts and emotions without judgment. Through practices such as mindful breathing, body scans and thought observation exercises, participants learn to identify and disengage from harmful thought patterns that might arise from traumatic experiences or unstable environments. MBCT encourages youth to ground themselves in the present moment, helping to reduce rumination, improve emotional regulation and increase self-compassion. Sessions should be adapted for developmental levels and cultural backgrounds, using guided audio, visual cues and physical activities that make mindfulness accessible and engaging.

  • Ecotherapy and Nature-Based Interventions

Ecotherapy (also known as nature-based therapy) leverages the therapeutic effects of the natural world to promote mental and emotional well-being. For unaccompanied minors who may have spent extended periods in institutional or urban environments, reconnecting with nature can provide a profound sense of calm, safety and restoration. Activities can include gardening, nature walks, outdoor group counseling or simply spending time in green spaces. Exposure to nature has been shown to lower cortisol (a stress hormone), improve mood and enhance attention and memory. These interventions are particularly powerful for youth with trauma histories, as the sensory engagement with the environment (smelling flowers, feeling soil, hearing birds) can provide grounding and regulation. Facilitators should ensure that the chosen nature settings are safe and accessible and can consider incorporating cultural or spiritual meanings of nature into the sessions. Ecotherapy not only heals the individual but also fosters environmental awareness and community connection.

Self-care for youth and social workers

Social and youth workers play a vital role in supporting refugee minors but are at a high risk of burnout due to the emotional demands of their work. Ensuring their well-being is crucial for maintaining effective and compassionate care.

Key strategies:

  1. Regular supervision and debriefing sessions – encourage organizations to implement structured check-ins where workers can discuss challenges and seek support. Provide access to psychological counseling for staff. Create safe spaces where social workers can express their emotions and experiences without judgment.
  2. Workplace policies supporting work-life balance – advocate for reasonable workloads and flexible schedules. Implement policies that allow workers to take mental health days when needed. Offer paid leave for those dealing with secondary trauma from their work.
  3. Personalized self-care plans – train workers on self-care techniques such as mindfulness, physical exercise and creative outlets. Foster a culture where self-care is seen as a necessity rather than a luxury. Organize wellness retreats, meditation sessions, and stress management workshops.

Training and capacity building for workers

Providing high-quality care requires ongoing professional development. Training programs equip workers with the skills and knowledge to navigate complex health challenges.

Promoting physical health and well-being (Cross-reference to Module 10: Sport)

Sport is not just a physical activity, it is a proven tool for healing, social connection and emotional regulation. For unaccompanied refugee minors, whose lives have often been shaped by trauma, instability and social isolation, sport provides a unique structure where they can rebuild trust, find belonging and reclaim a sense of control over their bodies and environments. Sport offers predictable routines, fosters community engagement and provides a natural outlet for stress relief. When thoughtfully integrated with mental health support strategies, sports can become a vehicle for trauma recovery and long-term well-being.

Psychological benefits of sport for refugee minors:

  1. Reduces stress and anxiety – physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that counteract stress hormones like cortisol. Regular participation can reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression.
  2. Improves focus and sleep – physical fatigue combined with emotional release helps regulate sleep cycles, which are often disturbed by trauma. Improved sleep directly impacts cognitive functioning, concentration and emotional stability.
  3. Promotes self-esteem and agency – accomplishments in sports (scoring a goal, completing a routine, improving stamina) translate into improved self-worth and confidence. This is crucial for minors navigating new social identities and unfamiliar systems.
  4. Strengthens social integration – team sports and group activities create opportunities for building interpersonal trust, cooperation and non-verbal communication, essential in multilingual or low-language settings.
  5. Teaches emotional regulation – learning how to handle wins and losses, manage impulses and remain disciplined under pressure mirrors important life skills, particularly in emotionally charged environments.

Examples of sport-based programs and interventions:

  1. Football for unity – a structured football initiative adapted to include trauma-sensitive coaching techniques, team-building exercises and emotional check-ins. Coaches are trained to recognize signs of distress and encourage positive peer dynamics. The game becomes a safe arena for emotional expression, leadership and belonging.
  2. Yoga and breathing circles – these low-impact sessions are particularly beneficial for minors who experience chronic tension or anxiety. Breathwork, paired with gentle movements, can regulate the nervous system and help participants become more attuned to their bodies. Sessions can be held in shelters, classrooms or outdoor spaces and adapted for various fitness levels.
  3. Martial arts for mindfulness – martial arts like karate, aikido or taekwondo combine physical skill-building with philosophical teachings about inner calm, respect and self-discipline. These programs encourage self-control, grounding and confidence while also allowing minors to regain a sense of bodily safety and strength.
  4. Dance and movement therapy workshops – dance offers a powerful way to express emotions non-verbally. Using cultural music and group choreography, youth can reconnect with joyful movement, cultural heritage and community rhythms. These workshops can double as cultural exchange spaces that build pride and intergroup understanding.
  5. Adventure and outdoor sports – activities like hiking, biking and climbing offer exposure to nature while encouraging cooperation, problem-solving and personal challenge. These programs are effective for older youth and can be paired with ecological education or mindfulness.

Inclusion and safety considerations

Offer both co-ed and gender-specific options. In many cultures, girls may feel more comfortable in female-only settings, especially for sports involving physical contact or specific clothing. Tailor activities to respect modesty norms, prayer times and culturally familiar sports (including cricket or volleyball). Also train facilitators to recognize trauma responses (withdrawal, aggression, dissociation) and respond with empathy. Avoid shouting, shaming or high-pressure performance expectations. And ensure sports equipment and clothing are available for all participants. Consider low-cost or donation-based programs that are easy to replicate in different contexts.

Integration tips for mental health practitioners

Embed short emotional reflection sessions before and after games: “How do you feel going into today’s session?” or “What was a moment that made you feel proud today?”. Also you can use team debriefing to teach emotional vocabulary and conflict resolution. It’s a good idea to pair sport sessions with psychoeducational elements: hydration, nutrition, body awareness and mental health literacy.

  • How can I incorporate elements of sport or movement into my own life to enhance my emotional well-being and foster a sense of community?

Art therapy as a mental health tool

Art therapy is a powerful and accessible form of emotional support that uses creativity to help young people express what they may not have the words for. Many unaccompanied refugee minors struggle to talk about their past experiences due to trauma, language barriers or cultural stigma around mental health. Art therapy provides a safe, non-verbal way to explore feelings, reduce anxiety and build confidence (without needing to speak). It’s not about artistic skill, rather, it’s about the process of creation. Making art helps calm the nervous system, increase focus and allow youth to feel seen and heard. Through drawing, painting, sculpture or collage, young people can process emotions, reconnect with their identity and begin to heal.

Benefits of Art therapy

  1. Emotional expression – helps minors externalize fear, sadness, anger and hope in a safe, symbolic way.
  2. Stress reduction – the repetitive, creative process can be calming and meditative, lowering cortisol levels.
  3. Increased self-esteem – completing art projects fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride.
  4. Empowerment – encourages agency, minors make choices about colors, shapes and messages, regaining a sense of control.
  5. Social connection – group art activities build trust, promote cooperation and reduce isolation.

When to use Art therapy

  • During group mental health workshops
  • In one-on-one counseling sessions
  • As part of daily routines in schools, shelters, or drop-in centers
  • For de-escalation after conflict or during emotional crises
  • As a regular wellness activity to promote long-term resilience

Outcomes from Art therapy

  • Improved emotional regulation
  • Reduced symptoms of PTSD and depression
  • Greater engagement in group settings
  • Reconnection to culture and personal identity
  • Empowered sense of voice and self-worth

Examples of Art therapy activities

  • Trauma-informed drawing and collage

Youth are encouraged to create images that reflect their personal journey (past challenges, current feelings and future dreams). Collage using magazine cut-outs or natural materials allows for symbolic storytelling. This practice helps them process complex emotions and reclaim their story.

  • Group murals

A large, shared canvas that groups can paint together. Each participant adds a piece that represents themselves or something they value. Murals foster a sense of belonging, shared purpose and community healing.

  • Clay and sculpture sessions

Working with clay or other tactile materials helps minors connect with their physical body and surroundings. This type of “hands-on” art is grounding and can release tension built up from traumatic experiences.

  • Personal art journals

Each child gets a sketchbook or journal where they can draw, color or paste images related to their mood or daily experiences. This tool allows for private reflection and helps track emotional progress over time.

Recommended tools and materials

Basic supplies:
crayons, colored pencils, markers, chalk, watercolors, paper, scissors, glue
Found/recycled items:
fabric scraps, leaves, cardboard, old magazines, plastic lids (affordable and environmentally friendly)
Paint-friendly surfaces:
cardboard boxes, poster boards, reusable canvas
Mobile art boxes:
pre-packed kits with basic art supplies that can be used in temporary shelters, community centers or camps (easy to transport and distribute)

Tips for facilitators

No judgment: avoid commenting on how “good” the artwork is, focus on how it made them feel.
Offer prompts: “Draw a place where you feel safe” or “Create a symbol for your strength”
Ensure safety: let youth work at their own pace and provide quiet spaces for those who need it.
Encourage storytelling: let participants explain their artwork if they choose, but don’t pressure them.
Culturally sensitive: respect symbols, colors and images that may carry cultural or spiritual meaning.

Exercises for daily implementation

Health is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of overall well-being, particularly for vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied refugee minors. These children and adolescents have often faced severe disruptions in their lives, including forced migration, exposure to conflict, separation from family and economic hardship. Such experiences can significantly impact their physical and mental health, making targeted interventions essential.

These exercises are designed to provide a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to health that is both accessible and sustainable. It highlights the interconnectedness of physical, mental and social health and offers practical guidance on fostering well-being within refugee communities. By addressing key challenges such as stigma, burnout among social workers and the need for capacity building. This module seeks to create an inclusive and supportive environment where both minors and professionals can thrive.

  • 1. Self-care checklist for social workers

Use this checklist daily or weekly to assess and maintain your own well-being:

  • Did I eat balanced meals today?
  • Have I exercised or moved my body?
  • Did I take breaks between tasks?
  • Have I reached out to a friend or colleague for connection?
  • Did I take time for something I enjoy?
  • Am I sleeping well?
  • Have I practiced any form of relaxation or mindfulness today?
  • 2. Emotional wellness wheel

A tool to help workers and youth visualize and reflect on their emotional balance. Each section represents a domain (relationships, self-esteem, purpose, joy, stress, physical care). Use a rating scale from 1 to 10 in each category. Identify areas needing attention and develop goals for improvement.

  • 3. Debriefing exercise: The “STOP” method

This tool can be used after emotionally intense sessions:

  • S (stop) – pause and take a breath.
  • T (take note) – what am I feeling physically and emotionally?
  • O (observe) – what thoughts or reactions did I have during the session?
  • P (proceed) – decide how to move forward: journal, talk to a colleague, take a break or seek supervision.
  • 4. Team debriefing circle (Weekly)

Facilitated 30-minute group reflection for staff:

  • Firstly – share highs and lows of the week.
  • Secondly – reflect on any emotional triggers or successes.
  • Thirdly – identify support needs and action steps.
  • And lastly – close with a mindfulness or gratitude exercise.


These exercises aim to foster emotional awareness, resilience and a supportive work environment.

  • 5. Grounding exercise: “5-4-3-2-1” technique

Use this exercise to reduce anxiety or overwhelming emotions during or after intense situations:

  • 5 things you can see
  • 4 things you can feel
  • 3 things you can hear
  • 2 things you can smell
  • 1 thing you can taste


This sensory awareness exercise helps center the mind in the present moment.

  • 6. Morning intentions ritual

Start the day with a positive and focused mindset:

  1. Take 3 deep breaths.
  2. Write down or say aloud:
    • One thing you’re grateful for…
    • One thing you want to accomplish today…
    • One self-care action you’ll take…
  • 7. Energy check-in chart (for youth and workers)

At the start of each session or shift, rate energy and emotional levels from 1–10 and answer:

  1. What do I need today to feel supported?
  2. What can I do to take care of myself today?


This helps with self-awareness and team communication.

  • 8. Body scan (5-minute mindfulness)

First step: Sit comfortably, close your eyes and bring attention to each part of your body from head to toe.
Second step: Notice any tension, discomfort or relaxation.
Third step: Breathe into each area.

Use before or after emotionally heavy work for grounding.

  • 9. “One Word” check-out

At the end of the day or team meeting, ask:

  • What one word describes how you’re feeling right now?


Use this to promote expression and reflect on emotional states without needing a full debrief.

  • How can this health model be adapted to different countries?
  • What are the most effective strategies for integrating refugee minors into public health systems?
  • How can employment pathways in the health sector be expanded for refugee youth?

Visibility, Partnership and Social Responsibility

This methodology provides a structured, in-depth approach to fostering health and well-being among unaccompanied refugee minors, ensuring their successful integration into host communities. The methodology ensures a comprehensive approach to refugee health, offering:

  • Visibility;
  • Partnerships;
  • Employment pathways;


Long-term well-being strategies.

Community engagement and support systems

A strong network of support is crucial for maintaining health and well-being.

Key strategies:

  • Partnerships between health services and schools – establish in-school health programs that provide medical, psychological and nutritional support.
  • Mentorship and peer support programs – train older refugee minors to mentor younger ones in health and wellness.
  • Digital health education platforms – utilize apps, videos and social media to share health information in engaging ways.

Monitoring and evaluation

To ensure effectiveness, health initiatives should be regularly assessed through:

  • Surveys and focus groups with participants.
  • Case studies showcasing successful interventions.
  • Data collection on health outcomes and service utilization.

Why should health organizations support this cause?

Reason 1. Visibility
Highlight the Opportunity
Positive Brand Association
Cross-Promotion Opportunities
Health organizations and professionals can gain visibility by participating in refugee health programs and initiatives. These initiatives allow them to showcase their expertise in public health, humanitarian aid, and social well-being. Success stories from refugee minors benefiting from health interventions can serve as impactful promotional materials.
Partnering with refugee health programs enhances an organization’s reputation as a socially responsible entity. It demonstrates commitment to inclusivity, well-being, and global health equity.
Joint campaigns with health organizations, governments, and NGOs can boost public engagement and advocacy. Utilizing social media platforms, websites, and press releases to raise awareness about refugee health issues.
Reason 2. Social Responsibility
Empathy and commitment to health equity
Community engagement and inclusion
Long-term public health impact
Unaccompanied refugee minors face severe health disparities due to displacement and limited access to medical services. Supporting refugee health initiatives aligns with global humanitarian values and promotes sustainable development goals.
Health organizations can collaborate with local communities to provide essential health services, such as vaccinations, nutrition programs, and mental health support. Establishing community health networks that integrate refugee minors into public healthcare systems.
Investing in refugee health programs ensures long-term benefits by preventing disease outbreaks, improving mental health outcomes, and fostering healthier generations. It strengthens public health infrastructure by incorporating refugees into national health policies and service frameworks.
Reason 3. Sponsorship
Strategic partnerships in the health sector
Brand differentiation and public engagement
Customized sponsorship packages
Collaborating with pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and medical schools to sponsor healthcare programs for refugee minors. Providing funding for health-related training programs, scholarships, and mobile medical clinics.
Sponsors gain public recognition through their contribution to humanitarian health projects. Corporate social responsibility initiatives can integrate refugee health advocacy, reinforcing their commitment to ethical business practices.
Offering different levels of sponsorship, including branding at medical camps, sponsored health education programs, and sponsored digital health platforms.

Case Study “the Well-Being Alliance”

Put your knowledge into practise

Health initiative for refugee minors, the Well-Being Alliance. A comprehensive health initiative aimed at providing structured and sustainable healthcare solutions for refugee minors, integrating them into the existing health systems, and ensuring long-term health benefits.

Key components:

  1. Preventative care – implementing vaccination campaigns tailored for refugee minors to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Nutritional programs that provide balanced meals and essential vitamins to counteract malnutrition. Hygiene and sanitation education to promote personal health and prevent the spread of diseases in community shelters.
  2. Mental health services – establishing trauma-informed counseling services to help refugee minors process their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Conducting stress management programs that incorporate mindfulness, breathing exercises, and physical activities to support emotional well-being. Providing resilience-building workshops to empower refugee minors with coping mechanisms for navigating their new environments.
  3. Employment and training – introducing vocational health training programs that prepare refugee youth for careers in healthcare, such as medical assistance, caregiving and first-aid response. Creating internship and apprenticeship programs within hospitals, NGOs and community health centers to provide hands-on experience. Partnering with universities and technical schools to offer scholarships and funding for refugee minors pursuing careers in health-related fields.


By integrating these components, the Well-Being Alliance ensures that refugee minors receive holistic support, helping them not only to survive but to thrive within their new communities.

Inspirational case study: Right to play’s “Sport for development” program

Right to Play is an international NGO that harnesses the power of sport and play to educate and empower children in humanitarian settings, including refugee camps. Their programs have a strong focus on psychosocial well-being, trauma healing, and mental health resilience.

Source and reference

You can learn more in their official report:

Right to Play. (2020). Sport for Development in Humanitarian Contexts: Assessment Report.

 

Key components of the case study

  1. Structured games and team sports – delivered daily, these sessions encourage collaboration, fair play and emotional expression, allowing youth to process feelings such as anger and grief in a safe, supportive environment.

  2. Life skills and mental health curriculum – coaches are trained not only to lead games but also to facilitate discussions around topics like emotional regulation, coping strategies and peer support.

  3. Peer mentorship and positive role models – older youth and peer leaders are empowered to mentor younger participants, fostering a sense of responsibility and belonging.

 

Impact and outcomes

  • 30–40% reduction in self-reported psychological distress among adolescent participants.
  • Improved emotional understanding with children reporting enhanced ability to “recognize and express emotions” after structured sessions.
  • Increased social cohesion, youth reported forming new friendships and feeling safer in the camp environment.


These findings are drawn from independent program evaluations by Right to Play and partner organizations.

Why it’s a valuable model

  1. Evidence-based – grounded in monitoring and evaluation, the program’s mental health impact is proven in multiple contexts (Jordan, Uganda, South Sudan).
  2. Trauma-informed – coaches receive mental health training to recognize and respond to distress, not just run games.
  3. Sustainable – builds local capacity by training youth as peer leaders, promoting program continuation even after NGOs depart.
  4. Adaptable – the framework is easily replicable in different cultural and logistical settings (rural camps, urban shelters or school environments).

Key labor law regulations for minors in health-related work (Under 18)

Labor regulations ensure that refugee minors entering health-related training or employment are protected from exploitation while being given opportunities for growth.

  1. Minimum age requirements for engaging in health training programs – minors must be at least 16 years old to participate in formal healthcare training programs. Certain non-clinical health roles, such as administrative support and health outreach, may allow participants as young as 14 years old with proper supervision.

  2. Limits on working hours and types of permissible health-related tasks for refugee minors – minors cannot work overnight shifts or more than 20 hours per week during school periods. Employment is restricted from including hazardous tasks such as handling infectious materials, exposure to radiation or direct surgical assistance. Supervised clinical internships are permitted, but minors must always work under a licensed healthcare provider.

  3. Protection against workplace exploitation and unfair labor conditions – employers must provide a safe work environment that follows labor laws and health regulations. Refugee minors engaged in healthcare training must be compensated fairly if they are in paid apprenticeships. Labor law violations, such as unpaid work or unsafe conditions, should be reported to child labor authorities and welfare agencies.

 

Note: Laws vary by country – always check local regulations.

These regulations ensure that refugee minors have a structured and protected entry into the healthcare workforce, equipping them with valuable skills while safeguarding their rights.

Case Study “HealthBridge Initiative”

Agency name: HealthBridge Initiative

Tagline: “Empowering youth, strengthening communities through health”

Concept overview:

HealthBridge Initiative is a social enterprise dedicated to providing professional healthcare services while empowering unaccompanied refugee minors through hands-on work experience and education.

Key objectives:

  • Provide meaningful health-related training and work experience for unaccompanied refugee minors.
  • Support hospitals, clinics and NGOs with well-trained community health workers.
  • Promote social inclusion through access to healthcare and well-being initiatives.
  • Create pathways for long-term employment and integration in the health sector.

 

Services offered:

  1. Health training – basic medical skills, hygiene, first aid and public health awareness.
  2. Community outreach – organizing free health check-ups and awareness campaigns.
  3. Mental health support – providing youth-friendly counseling and emotional support groups.
  4. Digital health education – online courses and informational materials for self-care.

 

How it works:

  1. Recruitment and training – refugee minors undergo structured training in basic healthcare and mental well-being.
  2. Internship assignments – participants gain hands-on experience through placements in hospitals, community clinics and NGOs.
  3. Mentorship and support – experienced healthcare professionals guide refugee youth in their learning journey.
  4. Career pathways – successful participants transition into medical assistant roles, public health positions or further studies in healthcare.

 

Impact:

The initiative has been strategically developed to deliver meaningful and sustainable long-term benefits across multiple interconnected areas with a particular focus on strengthening healthcare systems, fostering social inclusion and empowering refugee youth through education, skill-building and access to employment pathways.

  1. Social integration – refugee youth are actively connected with local healthcare services and professionals, fostering inclusion, building trust and enhancing access to essential support systems. This also helps bridge cultural and linguistic gaps in public health delivery.
  2. Healthcare growth – by training new professionals from refugee backgrounds, the program helps address critical labor shortages in the public health sector, contributing to the long-term resilience and sustainability of healthcare systems.
  3. Skill development – young participants gain foundational knowledge and practical experience in healthcare-related fields such as medicine, nursing and social work. This not only improves their competencies but also boosts their confidence and readiness for future careers.
  4. Employment pathways – the program lays the groundwork for long-term professional opportunities in the healthcare sector by building career-specific skills, establishing mentorship networks and facilitating certification where possible.

 


Conclusion:

This approach not only facilitates the social integration and personal empowerment of refugee youth, but also plays a vital role in addressing systemic challenges within public health. By equipping young people with relevant skills and connecting them to real-world career pathways, the initiative fosters both individual and community resilience. Furthermore, it helps build a more diverse, culturally competent and responsive healthcare workforce, one that reflects the populations it serves and is better prepared to meet evolving societal needs. The impact extends far beyond individual participants, contributing to a more inclusive, adaptable and sustainable health system that benefits society as a whole.

Reflection and action points:

  • How can you improve or expand existing health-related activities in your center to reach more underserved youth?
  • In what ways can the practices from this initiative be adapted to fit your daily work or local context?
  • What additional elements or support systems could be added to make health education more inclusive and sustainable?
  • How well are your current health programs functioning in terms of youth engagement, integration and long-term impact?

Consider discussing these questions collaboratively with your team as part of regular evaluation, planning or reflection processes. They can also serve as valuable prompts during training sessions, workshops or staff meetings to identify strengths, address gaps and explore opportunities for improving and expanding your current healthcare-related activities. By encouraging open dialogue and shared learning, these discussions can lead to more effective, inclusive and sustainable program development.

Assessment Part 1

Assessment Part 2

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References & Further Reading

Sources used:

  1. World Health Organization. (2022). Mental health and psychosocial well-being among refugee populations.
  2. UNHCR. (2021). Guidelines on the protection and care of refugee children.
  3. Unicef. (2020). Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Children and Adolescents in Humanitarian Settings.
  4. IOM. (2023). Health programming for vulnerable migrant youth.
  5. World Bank. (2022). Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Fragile Settings: A Multi-Country Analysis.
  6. European Commission. (2021). Practitioner Handbook for Promoting Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-Being among Refugees and EU Resident Communities.

Suggested readings and resources:

  1. Books:
    • Levine, P. A. Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma
    • Siegel, D. J. The Whole-Brain Child
    • Malchiodi, C. A. The Art Therapy Sourcebook
    • Ungar, M. The Resilience Research Centre: Working with Children in Difficult Contexts
    • Rothschild, B. The Body Remembers: The Psychophysiology of Trauma
  2. Websites:
  3. Apps and digital tools:
    • Insight Timer (Free guided meditation and breathing exercises)
    • Smiling Mind (Free mindfulness for youth)
    • MyLife Meditation (Mood tracking and mindfulness tools)
    • Colorfy (Digital art therapy tool)
    • Woebot (AI-based CBT chatbot for mental health support)
    • SuperBetter (game) – gamified mental resilience