Strengthen the system of psychosocial support

UNICEF, in collaboration with the Government of Kazakhstan, the Orken Institute, and regional Centres for Psychological Support (CPSs), is implementing a project to strengthen the national system of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for children and adolescents. The project focuses on building the capacity of professionals, enhancing multisectoral coordination, and developing sustainable, evidence-based approaches tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups.

The project supports a comprehensive review of CPS operations during their first year, identifies lessons learned, and provides strategic recommendations for institutional development and capacity building. It also evaluates the training materials, tools, and methodologies of four implementing partners working on CPS and anti-bullying programmes, aiming to harmonise standards and ensure alignment with child-friendly and evidence-based MHPSS practices.

Capacity-building activities include developing and delivering training on minimum MHPSS standards, case management, and online mental health services through platforms like uSupport. The project also strengthens monitoring and evaluation systems and supports national-level policy dialogue to inform the development of Kazakhstan’s National Concept on Mental Health.

Through these efforts, UNICEF and its partners aim to establish a unified, coordinated, and child-centred MHPSS system that can effectively respond to the mental health needs of children and adolescents across Kazakhstan.