Staff Training

Supportive Spaces-Trauma informed training for staff

Ireland has experienced a sharp rise in asylum applications in recent years, from an annual average of 3,200 (2017-2021) to over 18,000 in 2024. While accommodation capacity has expanded rapidly, a critical gap has emerged in the provision of mental health and trauma-informed training for IPAS officials and staff in privately operated centres.

Working in partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Department has developed a comprehensive training programme for officials and staff in centres. Supportive Spaces will train people in how to best support the wellbeing of people living in centres. Officials and private sector staff will be supported to create positive environments for people seeking international protection by applying mental health and trauma-informed practice in their daily work.

The project is funded by the European Union and implemented by UNHCR and the European Commission.