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Royal recognition for Solentra’s commitment to psychological support for refugees

On the occasion of the National Holiday, King Philippe traditionally highlights some people and causes for their achievements with a medal of honour or noble title. This year, that honour also falls to the Solentra team for their commitment to refugees by awarding the title of Commandeur in the Order of the Crown to Geertrui Serneels, director of Solentra.  

“I feel hugely honoured by the royal family’s recognition of Solentra’s project and the commitment of our team. It is also heartening for the many brave refugees we see every day and the many professionals and volunteers who contribute to recovery by approaching people from refugee backgrounds as enterprising people.” – Geertrui Serneels, Director Solentra

In 2005, Geertrui Serneels co-founded Solentra, a non-profit organisation founded in the lap of the department of child and adolescent psychiatry at UZ Brussel. Solentra stands for ‘Solidarity and Trauma’ and initially offers psychotherapy to children and families with a migration background.

When Europe faces a refugee crisis in 2015, Solentra starts focusing on people with refugee backgrounds, including adults, and specialises in war trauma. In addition to its headquarters in Brussels, there will be branches in Antwerp, Limburg and West Flanders.

Over the years, Solentra develops and refines a methodology to make mental health care for refugees accessible, qualitative and efficient. The culture-sensitive and outreach approach takes into account barriers such as language, culture, socio-economic situation or taboo. Solentra also supports the professionals and volunteers who accompany or support refugees with a free helpdesk and training. Their role is invaluable for a warm welcome and integration.

Solentra accompanies an average of 1,200 refugees every year, but that number can fluctuate greatly depending on what is happening in the world. For instance, the war in Ukraine and Gaza posed huge challenges to the team in recent years.

Geertrui: “The courage and strength of refugees, which we witness on a daily basis, motivates us to remain committed. The many passionate professionals and volunteers who play a crucial role in the integration of refugees are also invaluable. Playing a role in the new society is the beginning of any recovery, including trust in fellow human beings shattered by war trauma. I hope this recognition can help further encourage all stakeholders and will contribute to the objectives of our project.”    

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