Promoting healthy, active lifestyles among refugee children in Poland: a case study of the Be Active, Be Healthy project

Overview

The health status of refugees who arrive and settle in a new country is often poor, both physically and mentally. Despite this, countries rarely offer programmes on healthy behaviour for refugees. Furthermore, even if opportunities are presented, lack of time and money, job insecurity, mental strain, unstable living conditions, linguistic or cultural barriers and general worry often prevent refugees from participating in health promotion initiatives. Besides, many refugees deprioritize their wish to live healthy, active lives. In 2022, Poland made a commitment to improve the health of refugee Ukrainian children. With support and funding from WHO, Poland extended its Szkolny Klub Sportowy [‎School Sports Club]‎ and initiated a Be Active, Be Healthy project. By establishing hundreds of new training groups in which Polish and Ukrainian children exercised together, the project encourages participation in physical activity, community integration and support for mental health. This report describes Poland’s example and provides practical considerations for other countries, communities or teams that wish to initiate similar programmes. The report is based on a literature review, stakeholder interviews and an analysis of strengths and barriers. By examining the success of this programme and its impact on refugee children, this document offers insights and recommendations for improving health outcomes among refugee populations across the WHO European Region.