From 25 to 27 March, return counsellors from the Department of Justice in Ireland gathered for an introductory training workshop, aiming to enhance their knowledge in return and reintegration and their practical skills in return counselling. The training workshop is an integral part of the operational support provided by the RRF to Ireland, which aims to support the professionalisation of return operations within the Department of Justice.
The interactive training, following the principles of adult learning methodology and a “learning by doing” approach, provided participants with a deep understanding of migration and return dynamics at global, regional and national levels. Delivered by experienced trainers and experts, including Sophie Crozet, Anna Melenchuk and Diamantoula Vlantoni, the training featured case studies, role-playing exercises and different brainstorming activities, covering return and reintegration concepts and definitions, human rights based approach, pre-departure counselling, communication techniques, identification and assessment of vulnerabilities and reintegration and cooperation with reintegration partners.
Key objectives of the training included improving communication skills in return counselling, fostering trust-building techniques, and assessing the needs but also assisting vulnerable persons. Participants also explored sustainable reintegration strategies, equipping them with tools to effectively prepare returnees for the post return phase in their countries of origin.
This training represented a crucial step in strengthening Ireland’s voluntary return and reintegration framework, ensuring that return counsellors are well-prepared to provide effective guidance and support to potential returnees.
Stay tuned for updates and insights from our next return counselling trainings for Ireland and other EU MS!