In Chernivtsi, a support meeting was held for the families of missing persons and prisoners of war

The event was conducted by volunteers of the Tracing Service and the team of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support unit of the Ukrainian Red Cross at the training centre of the Chernivtsi regional branch of the Ukrainian Red Cross. The purpose of the meeting was to support the participants, helping them to understand that they are not alone, that their feelings are important, and that they can share them in a safe environment where they will be heard.

Participants engaged in discussions, painted tote bags, and learned first aid skills. Many expressed a desire to participate in such events in the future, as it was the first time since their relatives had disappeared that they realised taking care of themselves could help them deal with the waiting.

“I need to keep waiting for my son. To do this, I need to take care of my physical and mental health, and I will gladly participate in activities. Even now, as I paint this picture, my son is in front of my eyes. I know he would be happy if I cared for myself,” shared one of the participants.

The event was held with support from the British Red Cross as part of the Restoring Family Links programme.