Strengthening social & psychological support

Thanks to your invaluable support, dear donors, Green Cross Switzerland has been able to support the victims of the chemical weapon Agent Orange in Vietnam for a quarter of a century. These individuals require long-term, specialised medical care. That’s why we focus on strengthening local structures: the continued training of medical professionals, the equipping of orthopaedic workshops, and the support of day care centres have brought about lasting improvements in many places.

In addition to medical assistance, we are expanding social and psychological support to counter the exclusion of those affected—not only from society but also, in some cases, by their own families. A central element of the program is peer support: people with disabilities (PWDs) who have successfully integrated into social life help others by sharing their experiences.

PWDs receive individual care aimed at developing their abilities in daily life and enhancing their social integration. Standardised assessment tools are used to measure progress and develop personalised plans. PWDs are trained as peer counselors (Train-the-Trainer, TOT). They then conduct home visits and regularly provide advice to other PWDs and their families.

A key focus is also placed on accessible housing, where living spaces are adapted to the needs of PWDs, e.g. by installing wide doors, handrails, and accessible thresholds.

Additionally, PWDs and their families also receive psychological support. Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety disorders, and depression are addressed. The WHO model for community-based psychological care is applied in this context. Local health workers undergo training to recognise mental health disorders, teach stress and anxiety management techniques, and refer those in need to specialists if necessary.

Peer support groups also meet quarterly to share experiences, such as the stress management techniques they have learned.

It is only thanks to your regular donations that we can now provide support to the victims of Agent Orange in these equally important areas. This fills us—and especially those who receive this tangible help—with immense joy and gratitude!