Context
The access to the world of employment is a decisive factor in the difficult integration process of migrants living in the city of Rome.
In Italy, half of the immigrant population has a low formal education. While in some countries the educational level of foreigners evolves over time, generally increasing, in the last decade in Italy, this figure has increased only marginally, by less than 1 percentage point, the lowest figure among OECD countries. Formal education influences the type of work these people do, often forcing them into low-skilled jobs with low incomes and little job security.
The INTERSOS Lab project intervenes in this social issue, providing training, job orientation and psychosocial support for migrants, women in vulnerable situations and the local population.
Our intervention in 2023
In 2023, we launched the “Play Your Mind” (PLYM) project, funded by the King Baudouin Foundation, with the aim of promoting awareness and information on adolescent mental health issues. We raised awareness among adolescents and key adult figures—such as scouts, sports coaches, and teachers—about the main psychological disorders in adolescence, intervention methods, and the use of group support as a tool. Additionally, we provided guidance on mental health resources to ensure effective and targeted intervention.
The centre
INTERSOS Lab is a training and work orientation centre established in 2019 in the district of Ottavia, in the Municipality XIV of Rome. The centre’s activities are aimed at men, women and families – with a specific focus on the migrant population – in a condition of socio-economic vulnerability.
The centre also includes an Italian Language School for Foreigners, partner of the Scuolemigranti network, and an examination centre CVCL – University for Foreigners of Perugia.
INTERSOS Lab is a training organisation accredited by the Lazio Region and an Employment Agency that operates as a point of reference at regional level to enhance the offer of services in the area aimed at the social and labour inclusion of marginalised groups.
INTERSOS Lab also offers psychological support services and psychosocial support, social secretariat, a safe space for women and girls, and homework help activities for children and young people in primary and secondary schools.
