This programme began its implementation in 1994, when it comprised refugees and then displaced persons from Kosovo. Also, it comprised old persons in collective accommodation, as well as children and youth who implemented activities of this programme in the clubs within their local Red Cross branches. However, since 2003, the programme was redesigned and it is functioning even today in that changed form.
Psychosocial support in Montenegro Red Cross represents work with marginalized and vulnerable categories. It mainly refers to the work with children and youth, as well as to the work with the parents of beneficiaries, with whom we also have direct contact. We work with children and youth with special needs, within organized daily care for children, and with Roma children, who are preparing for the regular education system through this type of activity. This work represents kind of non-formal kindergarten that functions according to the programme foreseen by the Ministry of education for the formal preschool system.
Programme is being implemented in eight local Red Cross branches, out of which two works on the preparation of Roma children for the involvement into the regular educational process, and six local branches are working with the children and youth with special needs.
Work with Roma children – Roma kindergartens:
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Local Red Cross branch Niksic is actively working on the preparation of Roma children for the regular educational process, within the premises of the local branch. Volunteers are mostly working with this population, but also we have experts and professionals in this area. They work according to the preparatory preschool programme, social –inclusive activities, programme for parents, as well as creative and recreate workshops. This group around 20 participants, with the average participation of 70%, out of which 50% enroll the first grade of primary school.
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Local RC branch Berane works on preparation of Roma children for the regular system of education within the premises of collective centre in Berane, three times per week, for 3 hours. There are around 20 beneficiaries, with 75% of attendance. As indicator of success, 50% of participants enroll first grade of primary school.
