What are key occupational issues for refugees following resettlement?
A major issue effecting refugees’ ability to participate in every day occupations is the language barrier they experience following arrival to their host country (Driver & Beltran, 1998; Whiteford, 2001). The lack of ability to communicate effectively increases one’s sense of isolation, and decreases opportunity for education and work (Whiteford, 2004). The transmission of one’s cultural values can also be disrupted and lead to loss of meaningful life roles (Algado, Gregori & Egan, 1997). On arrival in the country of resettlment, trauma also continues to have an impact. People relive experiences, fear for their relatives left behind, and can feel guilty for having saved themselves (Driver & Beltran, 1998). Economic constraints, social discrimination, changes in life status/roles, and family disruptions can all impact ones ability to participate in meaningful life roles (Driver & Beltran, 1998). How does Australia’s Humanitarian Program work? Australia’s Humanitarian Program has two com
