OSCE expands facilities for psycho-social support to Ukrainian children affected by war

Ivano-Frankivsk oblast has become the fourth Ukrainian region where the OSCE has supported the establishment and launch of "Tvii" (“Yours”) spaces, designed to provide psychological and social assistance to children affected by war and their caregivers. 

On 11 and 12 December, four newly equipped centres were opened: one in the city of Ivano-Frankivsk and three in the communities of Kosiv, Kolomyia, and Starolysetsk. The initiative is implemented by the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine (SPU) in partnership with the National Social Service of Ukraine (NSSU), the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Military Administration, and local community authorities.

The “Tvii” spaces are dedicated rooms offering psychological and social assistance through individual and group activities. Each space is staffed by a psychologist and a social worker trained in specialized methods and supported through ongoing professional supervision.

“While some things cannot be undone, it is important that we do not stop there helpless, but continue to support children in overcoming the tragic experiences and give them a chance for a better life. Creating safe and comfortable spaces where children and their parents can get such assistance is an important step in this direction. Together with our Ukrainian partners, we hope to develop positive practices that will inspire communities across the country to mitigate the effects of war on minors,” said Daniela David-Cimpoies, Associate Programme and Project Support Officer of the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine. 

Support is tailored to children of different ages, from preschool to adolescence, and takes into account both their emotional condition and family-related needs. Parents and guardians can also receive consultations, as well as legal and informational support.

“Professional support and early identification of potential risks through assessing child’s condition in the “Tvii” space will make it possible to respond in a timely manner, provide families with the necessary support, and prevent situations from escalating to a critical level,” said Oksana Ovramenko, Director of the Department for the Protection of the Rights of Families and Children and Their Well-being at the Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine.

These spaces are already operating in Vinnytsia, Lviv and Ternopil regions. Since their launch, a total of 14 spaces for children have provided assistance to more than 3,700 children.

By the end of 2028, the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine plans to establish 40 such spaces across 12 regions of Ukraine.