ProjectStrengthening psychosocial health resources in Märkisch-Oderland

Project objectives and implementation

The project aims to establish a participatory health and prevention programme for people with a migration background while simultaneously promoting awareness of healthy and self-determined living within the area of integration.

A key strategy used is the multiplier approach, involving native speakers from the communities of people with a migration background who are encouraged to participate in self-organised meetings.

The health promotion initiatives are underpinned by health education methods, encompassing information events and workshops conducted at venues familiar to the target group, in person or digitally. The specific topics covered are determined annually based on a needs analysis conducted within the project.

Individual counselling on health topics is offered as part of the programme. The educational programmes prioritise the promotion of mental health, with educational materials developed collaboratively with both the target group and professionals. Emphasis is placed on multilingualism and adapting language levels to suit the educational level of the respective target group. In addition to language sensitivity, culturally sensitive approaches are also incorporated, such as considering customs of the countries of origin during communication.

The use of multipliers serves to sensitise the target group to mental health issues and to facilitate referrals to professional prevention services and the regular healthcare system. Concurrently, professionals involved in the project receive intercultural training and are interconnected. Moreover, structural development at the municipal level is promoted to bolster municipal health promotion through cross-sectoral cooperation. The health-promoting interventions for mental health are tailored to address the specific needs, interests and concerns of those reached by the services. They guide the design and implementation of specific measures.