METAdrasi, having introduced for the first time in Greece the institution of guardianship in 2014 and thanks to its long experience in the protection of unaccompanied members, is an implementing partner of the “NEAR to Guardians” project.
Project summary
The overall objective of the project is to increase networking, exchange of good practices, and knowledge sharing among various relevant actors across the EU on effective guardianship with the aim of ensuring full access to the fundamental rights of unaccompanied minors, focusing on key integration areas such as housing, labor inclusion, and education, in five EU member states (Italy, Spain, Greece, Slovenia, and Belgium).
The main activities of the project are:
- a collection and exchange of good practices, including study visits, on the effective protection of unaccompanied children in the key areas of housing, labor market integration, and education;
- a training program focusing on the key areas mentioned above, an e-learning platform and a digital library for mentors and stakeholders;
- 4 local working tables (in Italy, Greece, Spain, Slovenia) to consolidate methodologies and strengthen local networks;
- A series of tailor-made outreach, advocacy, dissemination and communication activities.
Expected results:
- Strengthen the capacity of Organizations and institutions involved in the reception, protection, and the provision of guardianship for unaccompanied children;
- Improve the dialogue between different groups in society, Organizations, institutions and local authorities on the provision effective guardianship;
- Increased level of inclusion and protection of young refugees in the host EU society;
- Increased visibility of guardianship in all member states.
Duration: March 2024 – August 2026 (30 months)
Project coordinator: Save the Children Italia
Implementing partners: METAdrasi | European Social Network | Institute for Social Studies | Sant Joan de Déu | Sant Joan de Déu Terres de Lleida
