Psychological support and barrier-free spaces for veterans: Rokada launches new project in Ternopil and Zhytomyr
The team of the Rokada Charitable Foundation is implementing an initiative to support veterans and their families. The project will run until January 14, 2027, with the primary goal of helping individuals restore psychological balance, reintegrate into active community life, and access services in accessible spaces.
Reintegration into civilian life is a distinct challenge for those with military service experience. Veterans and their families require professional psychological assistance, support in employment and retraining, as well as an understanding of how the social services system functions. In addition, existing veteran spaces are not always adapted for people with limited mobility, effectively leaving some visitors without access to essential services.
“Supporting veterans and their families is an investment in the resilience of communities and the recovery of Ukraine. By creating conditions for psychological well-being, social adaptation, and the active participation of veterans in community life, we are helping people who were defending the country just yesterday to restore their potential and drive positive change locally.”
The Rokada team has planned a series of initiatives to help address these issues:
Psychologists, along with reintegration and social adaptation specialists, will provide individual and group assistance, guide beneficiaries through employment and retraining stages, and refer them to relevant services as needed. Approximately 1,000 individuals are expected to receive this support.
Two veteran spaces in Ternopil and Zhytomyr will become fully barrier-free, equipped with stairlifts, accessible facilities, and equipment for people with limited mobility. As a result, approximately 3,050 veterans and their families will gain better access to group therapy, professional training, legal consultations, and other opportunities.
Approximately 100 local specialists—including psychologists, social workers, and representatives of non-governmental organizations — will undergo training in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). This includes trauma-informed approaches, veteran reintegration, and the inclusion of people with disabilities. In addition, targeted educational activities for community members will help foster a better understanding of the needs of socially vulnerable groups and work to overcome stigmatization.
The project Strengthening Support for Veterans in Ternopil and Zhytomyr is implemented by the Rokada Charitable Foundation in the Ternopil and Zhytomyr regions, with the support of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.
