Ukraine launches long term recovery program for people released from Russian captivity

Ukrainian government agencies and non governmental organizations launched a pilot project called Help Without Interruption to provide long term medical, psychological, and social support to people released from Russian captivity.

The initiative aims to move beyond the current system, which primarily focuses on the first few months after a person returns home. Because many individuals spent several years in captivity, they often require extended rehabilitation to manage the effects of isolation and torture.

The program involves 20 former captives and more than 30 of their relatives. It follows a five stage model that includes initial assessments, specialized inpatient treatment lasting four to six weeks, a socialization phase, and three to six months of outpatient follow up. The project also includes psychological consultations for family members. The initiative is funded by the Partnership for a Strong Ukraine Fund with contributions from the governments of the United Kingdom, Estonia, Canada, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, and Sweden.

The results of this nine month pilot will help officials create a permanent state procedure for continuous assistance. This new system intends to provide support based on an individual's specific needs rather than a fixed timeframe. Officials also plan to make these services available in the local areas where people live to reduce the need for travel to specialized centers.