Embrace — Navigating Pain in Times of Illness is a psychotherapeutic programme run by the Karl Vella Foundation (KVF), designed to support children and young people aged 5 to 17 who are undergoing treatment for a serious or life-limiting illness, either in Malta or abroad. KVF is a Maltese NGO that has been providing psychotherapeutic support to families dealing with illness or loss since 2014, and operates under a social agreement with the Maltese Government providing over €400,000 in funding. The Embrace programme was developed with the support of the HSBC Malta Foundation and is delivered online through weekly group sessions to accommodate participants who may be hospitalised, abroad for treatment, or unable to attend in person due to their medical situation.
Sessions are led by qualified mental health professionals and use a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to the developmental stage and needs of each child, including arts and crafts, narrative therapy, mindfulness, clay, kung-fu, meditation and group discussion. The programme fosters resilience, a sense of belonging, and practical skills to help children navigate their circumstances. Initial assessments and regular progress reviews are conducted with both the child and their guardians.
Embrace is open to children and young people aged 5 to 17 who are undergoing treatment for a serious or life-limiting illness, in Malta or abroad. Self-referral is accepted — parents or guardians can contact KVF directly. Referrals are also accepted from medical teams, schools, teachers, LSAs, psychological professionals, and other professionals aware of the child's circumstances.
Children may be referred to KVF through their schools, doctors, or other professionals. Parents/guardians can also refer their children themselves. Once an application or referral form is received the parents/guardians will be contacted.
