When people are displaced to another country because of war, support is often needed long before a problem becomes an emergency. Many people need help understanding where to go, what services are available, which documents may be required, and how to communicate their situation clearly.

In theory, sharing a list of organisations or services may seem helpful. In practice, it is often only the first step.

For a person who is new to a country, even the right contact can be difficult to use. They may not know which institution is responsible for their situation, what to write in the first message, what information to prepare, or what to do if they do not receive a response. Language barriers, stress, uncertainty, and previous negative experiences can make this process even more difficult.

This is why support should not be limited to providing information. People often need navigation: help understanding the system, identifying the right service, preparing the necessary documents, and taking the next steps.

Navigation can also mean explaining options in simple language, helping a person understand what is realistic in their situation, or accompanying them through communication with social, medical, legal, or community-based services.

RefAid BaltHUB works with this understanding of support.

The project helps Ukrainian refugees in the Baltic countries not only access information, but also find their way through unfamiliar systems. This may include social counselling, psychosocial support, accompaniment to services, referrals, peer support, and practical guidance depending on each person’s situation.

For many people, the most important step is simply knowing where to begin.

That is why RefAid BaltHUB focuses on accessible, human-centred support — so that people are not left alone with questions they cannot solve by themselves.

If you do not know where to start, you can reach out for support. Asking for guidance is already a first step toward finding the right solution.