A place to receive support and connect with others: new veterans’ hub opens in Pryluky
A modern support space for veterans, women veterans and their families has opened in Pryluky, Chernihiv region. It is a place where people can seek the assistance they need, learn about available opportunities, connect with others who share similar experiences, or simply spend time among people who understand what they have been through.
Mental health and psychosocial support will be a key focus of the space. Specialists from the Ukrainian Red Cross will organise group sessions for veterans and their families, support groups facilitated by a psychologist, and creative activities for children. Individual consultations will be available online and, where possible, in person.
“We want to respond not only to nationwide needs, but also to local needs, so that we can better support veterans and create meaningful opportunities for their transition to civilian life. Our team helped equip this space with the necessary equipment, furniture and other resources, ensuring its effective operation. We will continue supporting veterans and women veterans in the community, responding to their requests and helping them find solutions,” said Ihor Kostrikov, Veteran Programme Coordinator at the Ukrainian Red Cross.
The space will also host educational, cultural and sports activities, as well as meetings of the veterans’ community. At the same time, people will be welcome to visit without a specific request — simply to talk, share their thoughts and be heard.
“This space will be a great help because veterans returning home need psychological support and opportunities to connect with others above all else. The more you communicate with others, the more you begin to recover,” said Oleksii Nazaruk, a veteran and head of the veterans’ organisation of the 164th Territorial Defence Battalion in Pryluky district.
Veterans and women veterans will also receive support from a case management specialist, who will help them navigate procedures, prepare applications to public authorities, complete paperwork and access the services they need.
The veterans’ space in Pryluky was established with the support of the Ukrainian Red Cross and the British Red Cross, and on the initiative of the Pryluky District Military Administration.
