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EpsiLon

EpsiLon – Equipping Professionals for Supporting LGBT Refugees

Increasing the knowledge, skills and awareness of all adult professionals who come in contact with LGBT migrants and refugees is key issue for better integrating them in the host society.

Grant Agreement Number: 2016-1-UK01-KA204-024317

Funded by:  Erasmus+          Duration: 01/09/2016-31/08/2018   

EPSILON project logo


Challenge

During the period 2015-2018 more than 1,4 million refugees arrived in Europe, as a repercussion of the political turmoil in Middle East and North Africa. The vast majority came by sea to Greece, Italy and Cyprus. At the same time, the increasing inequality and persecution of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender groups (LGBT) affects also migrants and refugees, as they have been subject to severe social exclusion and violence in reception centres.

Combined together these two characteristics make LGBT migrants and refugees one of the most vulnerable groups in Europe. This has intensified the need of training adult professionals and volunteers who come in contact with LGBT migrants, as Greece, Italy and Cyprus have still progress to do regarding the protection of LGBT rights. Conversely, UK and Netherlands have introduced effective policies in training for LGBT issues and human rights.

Innovation

Better integration and support services to LGBT migrants through the enhancement of skills and knowledge on LGBT issues of adult professionals and volunteers who come in contact with migrants and refugees.

Action

An e-book developed to gather all the information about the existing situation in Greece, Cyprus, Italy, UK and Netherlands in the area of LGBT refugees and migrants. The Ebook was based on desk and field research in partner countries, while it includes best practices.

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A training course has been developed to better equip adult professionals and volunteers working with LGBT migrants and refugees. The training course includes the following modules: Being LGBT, LGBT asylum seekers and refugees and LGBTI friendly environment for migrants, asylum seekers and refugees. Also, a handbook was produced to assist professionals on the training process.

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A Policy Recommendation paper (E-book) developed which includes the existing situation, best practices and recommendations for those working with refugees and migrants.

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Final Conference

The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Project Partners

KMOP – Social Action and Innovation Centre
The IARS International Institute (UK– Project Coordinator)
CARDET (Cyprus)
Anziani e Non Solo SC (IT)
Movisie (NL)

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