Pompidou Group continues to enhance knowledge on the pressing issues of mental health among various specialists (educators, psychologists and social workers) working with vulnerable children and adolescents.

Social workers and educators working at orphanages and child shelters in Tbilisi and Eastern Georgia gathered from 1 to 3 July to exchange on the most pressing issues of mental health. The training, organised by the Pompidou Group, covered a range of issues and focused on mental health support, teamwork, and communication with families, while also addressing stigma and ways to prevent burnout among professionals. Through specific case examples, the training also addressed how to recognise and detect mental health issues caused by substance use or other type of dependencies.

The three-day event followed an interactive format including group exercises and supervision sessions, through discussing peer to peer practices and professional cases. In addition, specialists received comprehensive feedback from the experts on their daily work.

As a result of the training, social workers and educators improved their understanding, awareness and knowledge on the pressing issues of mental health and its practical nuances. According to them, this was the first comprehensive training on mental health issues that enabled them to improve their techniques and methodology in dealing with children and parents in daily work.

The training was organised in the framework of the Project ’’Strengthening the Role of Key Actors in Drug Prevention’’ implemented by Pompidou Group under the  2024-2027 Council of Europe Action Plan for Georgia.