[Exploring the relationship between refugee women and female volunteers]

The growing number of refugees arriving in Germany in 2015 increased the need for support and care in psychosocial matters, on the part of both, refugees and volunteers. The research project ReWoven investigated the relationship between refugee women and female volunteers, who were not necessarily familiar with each other, through 32 guided interviews (16 with Arab & Farsi speaking women, 16 women with female volunteers). The results reveal a relevant uncertainty surrounding the definition of "volunteering" on both sides as well as misunderstandings and imbalances in their interaction. Both constitute obstacles in building close, reciprocal relationships between members of the two groups. When exploring the relationship between refugee women and female volunteers, the influence of the organization that provides the context of their encounters should be considered.