The Cultural Mediator as a Facilitator for Collaboration: Fostering Inter-Institutional Networking Among Services for Forced Migrants

Aim/Purpose The aim of the study is to explore the experience of cultural mediators in working with operators of reception and mental health care systems for forced migrants. Specifically, the study seeks to address strengths and weaknesses and areas for improvement in the service network. Background Cultural mediation in Italy has developed as a response to the increasing cultural diversity within reception and healthcare systems, driven by significant migration flows. Nonetheless, the lack of inter-institutional relationships and standardized procedures hamper the effectiveness of cultural mediators in supporting forced migrants within the network of psycho-social services. Methodology The study implemented a qualitative approach by conducting semi-structured interviews with 14 cultural mediators. The interviews aimed to understand the experience of cultural mediators in working in the network of services that support forced migrants. Cultural mediators with different work experiences and cultural backgrounds were selected through convenience sampling. Contribution This study adds to the literature the direct experience and perceptions of cultural mediators as regards their work with reception and mental health system operators and the collaboration between these stakeholders, highlighting the central role offered by cultural mediators in fostering such collaboration. Findings The study revealed both the strengths and weaknesses of collaboration between forced migrant reception and mental health services, highlighting the key role of cultural mediators in bridging gaps between different services. It also provides suggestions on how to improve collaboration between different stakeholders. Recommendations for Practitioners Practitioners should improve collaboration among different stakeholders by improving communication skills and cultural training of psycho-social operators involved in the aid network of forced migrants. Recommendations for Researchers Future research should investigate how efficient communication and resource location between psycho-social operators that support forced migrants could impact the work of cultural mediators and the quality of support provided to forced migrants. Impact on Society Study findings give useful insights on how to improve the reception and mental health care for forced migrants and the collaboration between different actors, ultimately impacting both the lives of migrants and society as a whole. Future Research Future studies should focus on evaluating the long-term effects of implementing the recommendations for improving service networks and understanding the impact of policy changes on the role of cultural mediators.