Crises – whether caused by war, natural disasters, or displacement – can leave deep emotional scars on children. Yet too often, professionals on the front lines lack the support and resources they need to help children cope with trauma. To close that gap, the Council of Europe has launched a Manual for professionals titled “Mental health and psycho-social support for children in crisis and emergency situations”.

Child-centred and inclusive, this manual is rooted in a rights-based approach and designed for real-world emergencies. It serves as a powerful tool toward ensuring that every child receives the support they need, when they need it most.

This comprehensive resource equips professionals with practical, evidence-based strategies to provide effective mental health and psycho-social support (MHPSS) to children affected by emergencies. It focuses on helping children build resilience and recover from trauma in safe, supportive environments.

Commissioned by the Council of Europe’s Consultation Group on the Children of Ukraine (CGU), the Manual updates and expands earlier guidance, offering a master version that can be translated and adapted to different national contexts. Special attention is given to the urgent needs of children affected by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

For translation and adaptation requests, please contact [email protected], with [email protected] in copy.