About Awas
The Agency for the Welfare of Asylum Seekers
Mission and Function
AWAS targets the implementation of national legislation and policy concerning the welfare of refugees, persons enjoying international protection and asylum seekers. In practice, AWAS manages reception facilities and promotes government schemes related to resettlement voluntary returns.
AWAS also acts as a facilitator between public entities responsible for providing services to ensure that national obligations to beneficiaries of international protection and asylum seekers are fulfilled encouraging a network with local voluntary organisations in Malta. It also draws up reports for policy-making bodies and government.
Malta is a signatory of the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.
AWAS provides general services such as :
Basic Health Services
In three AWAS centres, nurses and doctors are available to care for the beneficiaries. AWAS will also provide the beneficiaries with information regarding mainstream health services. If the beneficiary requires transport to attend medical appointments, then the agency can book transport for the beneficiary to attend.
Psychological and Emotional Support Service
The Psychosocial Unit carries out assessments via interviews and offers psychosocial support to beneficiaries of international protection and asylum seekers. Its goal is to enhance the mental well-being of asylum seekers facing emotional distress and assist them with their challenges. This service is available to beneficiaries across all AWAS centres, as well as in Detention Centres, Mount Carmel Hospital, and Block C in Floriana.
Vulnerability Assessment
The Assessment Unit works to identify, assess, and respond to the specific needs of vulnerable beneficiaries of international or temporary protection. Assessments are done both in reception and detention centres.
Socio-Educational Initiatives Service
The team is responsible for organizing various activities across the centres, coordinating with NGOs, and managing donations. They visit AWAS Centres weekly. Some of the activities supported by this team include barber sessions, arts and crafts, sports and exercise sessions, movie nights, and clothing distributions. The Activity Team also takes part in events organized externally.
Information Provision Service
Migrant Advice Unit (MAU) offers support providing information to beneficiaries within AWAS Reception Centres and in the community. The unit focuses on information provision regarding employment, education, healthcare, housing, reception, asylum, relocation, Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR). In addition to legal support and public services including transport routes and moving applications.
Social Support Service
Social Workers conduct interventions on psychological health, matters and concerns. The Care Team assists in crisis interventions, boat arrivals, and assessments for clients in the community.
