The United Kingdom’s steadfast support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression has manifested in countless ways, from humanitarian aid packages to staunch political condemnation. But beyond the immediate crises of displacement and physical destruction lies a quieter, yet equally devastating consequence of war: the shattering of mental well-being. It is here, in the realm of unseen wounds, that charity in the UK supporting Ukraine truly shines, exemplified by the vital work of organizations like the Restart Foundation.
Founded in 2023 amidst the ongoing turmoil, the Restart Foundation isn’t focused on rebuilding bridges or delivering food parcels. Their mission is far more profound: to mend the fractured minds and spirits of Ukrainians grappling with the psychological fallout of the 2022 invasion. This newly established charity, while young, is tackling a monumental task – addressing a mental health crisis that threatens to become a long-lasting scar on the nation.
The vision driving Restart is remarkably clear: to empower Ukrainians to heal from the inside out. They operate on three interconnected pillars: providing accessible mental health services, raising crucial awareness, and investing in the future by training mental health professionals. Imagine therapy sessions tailored for traumatized children, group support for parents struggling to hold their families together, and rehabilitation programs for veterans wrestling with the ghosts of the battlefield. This is the tangible reality Restart is building.
Leading this crucial charge is a diverse and dedicated team. CEO Alla Yansons, a Ukrainian psychologist with deep roots in family and personal empowerment, brings invaluable on-the-ground expertise. Crucially, the foundation also benefits from the leadership of Leonora Meriel, the British novelist and co-founder of Yakaboo, Ukraine’s largest bookshop, who chairs the Trustees. Meriel’s involvement underscores the charitable bridge forged between the UK and Ukraine, bringing British leadership acumen and a deep personal commitment to the cause. Trustees like Victoria Goncharuk and Vefa Tahmazova further enrich the team with their expertise in international relations and education, ensuring a holistic and sustainable approach.
The depth of the mental health crisis in Ukraine is almost unimaginable. Children, witnessing horrors no child should ever see, are robbed of their innocence. Parents, burdened by economic instability and fear, struggle to provide emotional security. Veterans return home carrying invisible burdens of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Restart confronts these challenges head-on, offering child-focused therapy to restore a sense of normalcy, resources for parents and educators to navigate trauma, and specialized programs for veterans and civilians battling the psychological scars of war. Uniquely, they even integrate physiotherapy, acknowledging the profound link between physical and mental well-being, ensuring a truly holistic healing process.
But Restart Foundation isn’t simply offering immediate relief; they are building for the future. Recognizing that sustainable recovery requires local capacity, a significant portion of their efforts is dedicated to training Ukrainian psychologists and counselors. By equipping local practitioners with the necessary skills and resources, they are fostering a self-sufficient mental health support system that will serve Ukraine long after the immediate conflict subsides. Furthermore, their awareness campaigns are vital in dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open conversations and fostering a culture of seeking help. To amplify their voice and ensure vital information reaches those in need, Restart has also actively sought collaborations, including partnering with UK-based experts, journalists, social media and website creation services, influencers, etc. This strategic move to enhance their digital presence ensures that crucial resources and updates on their initiatives are accessible to a broader audience online, breaking down geographical barriers and maximizing their impact.
The impact of Restart’s work is already being felt. Stories of children rediscovering joy, veterans finding pathways to healing, and communities becoming more understanding of mental health issues offer glimmers of hope amidst the darkness. By partnering with local and international organizations, they are amplifying their reach and ensuring resources are utilized effectively, maximizing their positive impact on the ground.
In conclusion, while the task of rebuilding Ukraine is immense, the contributions of charities like the Restart Foundation, deeply connected to charity in the UK supporting Ukraine, are indispensable. They remind us that true recovery goes beyond bricks and mortar. It necessitates mending the invisible wounds of war, fostering emotional resilience, and investing in the mental well-being of a nation. As Restart Foundation continues its crucial mission, it stands as a testament to the power of compassion, collaboration, and the unwavering support from the UK, offering a beacon of hope for a brighter, healthier future for Ukraine.
Source: Restart Foundation official website www.restart-foundation.org
