Practical tools for peer-led mental health support

PHAROS delivers innovative training programmes and resources that empower migrants, educators and communities to foster inclusive mental health support through education, peer mentoring and local networks.

Our approach

PHAROS supports migrant mental well-being through a peer-led, inclusive model that combines education, empowerment and community-building.

The project delivers practical tools and training to help migrants, educators, and local organisations better respond to the emotional and psychological needs of displaced individuals. Each result builds on the others, creating a sustainable framework for culturally sensitive mental health education and support across Europe.

Training

We develop and deliver a 30-hour curriculum for adult migrants, equipping them to support their peers with mental health knowledge, self-care skills, and access to services.

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Upskilling

We provide a 24-hour professional development programme for adult educators, helping them engage with migrant learners in inclusive and trauma-informed ways.

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Networks

We help trained lay advisors establish community-based support groups for newly arrived migrants and refugees, promoting emotional well-being and social connection.

Results

Lay Mental Health Advisor Curriculum

 

This 30-hour training programme is designed to empower adult migrants to take on the role of Lay Mental Health Advisors within their communities. The curriculum combines face-to-face workshops with self-paced online learning, focusing on culturally sensitive approaches to mental health. Participants will build the skills and confidence needed to support peers, raise awareness, and help reduce stigma surrounding mental health.

The curriculum is divided into six modules: Introduction to Mental Health; Common Mental Health Disorders; Trauma-Informed Care; Access to Mental Health Services; Self-Care for Advisors; and Mindfulness and Self-Care for Migrants and Refugees. 

UPSKILLING PROGRAMME

Upskilling programme for Eeducators and support workers

This 24-hour training programme is designed for adult educators, support workers, and NGO staff working with migrants and refugees. The programme aims to strengthen professional capacity to address mental health issues in the classroom and community through inclusive, trauma-informed, and culturally competent teaching practices.

The programme consists of six modules that explore foundational mental health concepts, specific concerns faced by migrants and refugees, and effective strategies for facilitating sensitive discussions. It also supports educators in adapting content for learners from diverse backgrounds and developing their own cultural awareness.

networking guidebook

Peer-to-peer support network guidebook

 

This practical guidebook supports Lay Mental Health Advisors in setting up and managing peer support groups for newly arrived migrants and refugees. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share experiences, discuss emotional challenges, and learn about available mental health resources.

The guidebook includes strategies for community outreach, participant recruitment and trust-building, along with guidance on ethical referral practices, facilitation techniques, and managing sensitive topics. It also offers advice on crisis intervention and collaboration with mental health professionals.

What people say

I think PHAROS has the potential to start real conversations about mental health in migrant communities. My hope is that it builds confidence and connection, and that no one feels like they have to face things alone.

— Eleni, Cyprus

We talk a lot about inclusion, but mental health is often left out of the conversation. I hope PHAROS will change that - especially for people who are new to the country and don’t know where to turn."

— Viktorija, Lithuania

I’m really hopeful about PHAROS. If it can give people the tools to help one another, that can change lives. Peer support can be so powerful, especially when someone feels alone or misunderstood.

— Alice, Ireland

Latest News

Check out our latest updates and activities, and see how you can get involved in making a positive impact.

Kicking off curriculum development

Kicking off curriculum development

On Thursday, April 10, the PHAROS project partners came together for a productive online meeting focused on the development of our very first project output – the Lay Mental Health Counsellor Curriculum for Migrant Learners. This comprehensive 30-hour training...

Partners meet in Navan, Ireland

Partners meet in Navan, Ireland

The Erasmus+ KA2 “Pharos” project partners recently gathered in Navan, Ireland, marking an important milestone in our collaborative journey towards enhancing mental health support for migrants and refugees across Europe. This productive meeting provided an...

PHAROS: first newsletter released

PHAROS: first newsletter released

We are thrilled to announce the release of Newsletter No.1 for the Erasmus+ KA2 PHAROS Project, a crucial initiative aimed at improving mental health support for migrants and refugees across Europe. This first edition provides an overview of the project’s objectives,...

DISCLAIMER

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.