Since mid-July MSF teams in Rome have provided psychological support to refugees who have recently arrived in the city. As of the 30th August, the team has provided psychological and emotional support to 538 people, providing 1754 discussions and basic help. Working mainly from the Baobab Center (run by volunteers) and in the area of Tiburtina, behind one of Rome’s Train Stations.
The two locations have become the most popular transit centres and most of the people who stay here are planning to settle in Northern Europe. The majority of the refugees in the two areas are of Eritrean origin, but also Sudanese and Ethiopian. Due to the transitory nature of their presence, this group has obtained unique characteristics and vulnerabilities. They often arrive from landing ports in Italy (or after a short stay in CPSA) and they remain in the territory for a limited period of time while they try to reorganise themselves in order to reach their final destination.
MSF teams provide them with information on their health rights and psychological attention based on an evaluation of their specific individual needs.