Approximately 500 Ukrainian residents in Bruges needed temporary and/ and-term support due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Therefore, this project was established to improve outreach to the Ukrainian population, provide material, social, medical or psychological services in Bruges, and increase the social participation of Ukrainians in the area.
Van Volden is a centre that connects services in one location. In the centre, a refugee may avail of the following:
Legal: Free legal advice with a sworn interpreter about residence status, housing problems, rent etc.
Medical: Free medical screening and urgent care are provided, including physical examinations, TBC screening and vaccination. Creation of medical files and referral to a general practitioner when necessary.
Cultural and social: the centre provided a collective space for Ukrainians to meet and speak with other Ukrainians