Needs assessment of migrant women in Cyprus in the framework of the European project Remcread

Their stay in Cyprus ranged from 11 months to 9 years, and their age ranged from 26 to 50. Regarding their proficiency in English, all of them had basic to high proficiency, while their knowledge of Greek was minimal, limited to a few phrases learned during their stay. Of the group, only one person had a Cypriot driving licence.

The women's primary occupations included elderly care, cooking, and household management. They expressed an interest in training to improve their English language skills, learning Greek, using computers and smartphones, their rights as workers, learning to drive, and more creative skills such as nail care and grooming, hairdressing, and candle-making.

Their challenges include language and cultural barriers, insecurity about staying at work or in the country, and restrictions and control by their employers. Limited free time and the high cost of living are additional barriers to investing in education and vocational training in their areas of interest. Such vocational training can provide them with professional certification to enable them to use it in Cyprus or in another country. Participants also reported that pressure from their employers led to feelings of depression.

All the women unanimously voiced their greatest unmet need-the inability to bring their children to Cyprus due to their demanding work schedules. They also expressed satisfaction with the country's health care system but disappointment with the lack of educational opportunities upon arrival.

Finally, they showed great interest in creating experiential and interactive workshops in cosmetology, nail care and grooming, hairdressing, and candle making. The main difficulties that hindered their professional development included language and cultural barriers, as well as a lack of opportunities, time, and money. During the meeting, several issues were discussed that will help the project's further development.