Modern social work is inseparable from the provision of timely and practical assistance to vulnerable populations, including forced migrants. In the context of increasing geopolitical instability and the growing influx of displaced people, social workers are increasingly required to serve this group not as exceptional but as regular clients. However, significant barriers—such as restrictive social policies and the inadequate preparation of social workers—limit forced migrants’ access to quality support services. This article examines the strengthening of core social work competencies in the learning process (e.g., through developing intercultural communication skills and applying experiential learning and trauma-informed methods). The article presents the results of an empirical study implemented within the Erasmus+ project “Improved Social Workers” in Lithuania and Cyprus. A mixed-methods research strategy combining observations, psychodiagnostic techniques, and reflexive analysis was employed in this study. Quantitative data revealed an increase in social workers’ communicative tolerance and a reduction in ethnocentrism. At the same time, qualitative analysis highlighted significant growth in both professional and personal aspects of the participants’ lives. Following training, both Lithuanian and Cypriot social workers reported improved intercultural communication, increased sensitivity to trauma, and enhanced professional skills. The findings underscore the importance of training social workers to effectively address the complex needs of forced migrants.

Forced migration is a global challenge, with displaced populations often remaining highly vulnerable because of pre-migration trauma, ongoing psychosocial stress, and structural barriers to integration. In response, locally grounded social innovations are increasingly used to address these issues. This article examines the implementation of the MindSpring program in Lithuania, serving as a novel local response to the integration of forced migrants. The analysis is based on a theoretical framework that highlights psychosocial vulnerability, trauma-informed care, and community-based support. It emphasizes a shift from individualistic integration models to approaches focused on collective empowerment, peer support, and active participation of migrant communities. MindSpring is presented as a peer-led psychosocial intervention that strengthens internal community resources and social cohesion. Empirical findings from qualitative interviews with Ukrainian refugees and trained community leaders indicate that participants reported perceived improvements in psycho-emotional well-being, including greater emotional stability, increased self-awareness, stronger relationships, and a deeper understanding of the host society. Community leaders also described increased self-confidence and the development of roles as mediators between migrant and host communities. We conclude that MindSpring can be understood as a contextually innovative form of social innovation within the Lithuanian context, providing opportunities for psychosocial reflection, peer connection, mutual support, and social participation. The findings may offer context-specific insights that could inform research or practice in other settings.