Project ‘Blossom’: Counselling Services In Gozo Schools
A new pilot project, Blossom, has been launched to provide counselling services in Gozo’s schools, marking a major step in strengthening mental health support for children and young people. The initiative was announced by the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, and the Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Manifesto, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi. The agreement establishing the project was signed between The Malta Trust Foundation and the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, represented by the Foundation’s founder and chairperson, former President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, and Permanent Secretary Mario Borg.
The Blossom project aims to create a sustainable and accessible support system for students, focusing on mental health awareness and early intervention. Counselling services will be available directly within state schools in Gozo, ensuring that help is provided where it is most needed. The initiative will also focus on supporting students during key educational transitions, such as the move from primary to secondary, secondary to post-secondary, and tertiary education.
Minister Clint Camilleri described the project as another important milestone in improving the wellbeing of Gozitan communities. He said the Government is committed to building an inclusive and compassionate society that recognises the emotional needs of children and young people.
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted that European funding is playing a key role in improving the quality of life across Malta and Gozo. He said that investing in children’s mental health is an investment in the country’s future and that programmes such as the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund are vital in making these initiatives possible.
Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca expressed her satisfaction that The Malta Trust Foundation is partnering with the Government to ensure more children receive professional support. The project also includes training, team-building and supervision sessions to maintain a high standard of service delivery.
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