Qatar Red Crescent, British Embassy in Doha Sign Agreement to Expand Mental Health Support

The Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) and the British Embassy in Doha have signed a new cooperation agreement to continue providing mental health and psychosocial support for Palestinian families hosted in Qatar through March 2027.

The agreement marks the launch of the third phase of the humanitarian programme, building on previous efforts to help families evacuated from Gaza recover from trauma and rebuild their lives.

Third phase focuses on long-term recovery

The agreement was signed by Abdullah Sultan Al Qatan, Acting Secretary-General of QRCS, and Neerav Patel, the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to the State of Qatar.

The new phase will shift the programme’s focus from emergency response to a more sustainable approach centred on community empowerment, institutional development and long-term capacity building.

Supporting mental health and resilience

Mohamed Bader Al Sada, Assistant Secretary-General for Relief and International Development at QRCS, said mental health and psychosocial support are essential components of humanitarian assistance.

He noted that the programme aims not only to address immediate challenges but also to help families regain a sense of security, rebuild confidence and move forward with hope and dignity.

According to QRCS, the third phase builds on the work of its Emergency Response Unit for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, which has been assisting Palestinians evacuated from Gaza and hosted in Qatar.

Schools and communities to benefit

Ambassador Neerav Patel said the partnership has delivered vital support to Palestinian families over the past two years by creating safe spaces, strengthening communities and providing therapy for those facing difficult circumstances.

He added that the latest phase will continue supporting affected families while also investing in the future through psychological first aid and school-based wellbeing programmes, helping equip teachers and young people with the skills to build resilience and promote mental wellbeing.

Strengthening humanitarian cooperation

The renewed agreement underscores the ongoing humanitarian cooperation between QRCS and the British Embassy in Doha, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting Palestinian families throughout their recovery journey.

Both organisations said the partnership demonstrates how collaborative humanitarian efforts can provide lasting support to vulnerable communities while promoting recovery, resilience and long-term wellbeing.