InformationBooklet

INFORMATION BOOKLET TO RESIDENTS OF OPEN CENTRES (ERF 2013-04)
INFORMATION
BOOKLET FOR
RESIDENTS OF
OPEN CENTRES
(ERF 2013-04)
1

Complied by
Victor Fiorini, Doriana Di Santo, Franica Cassar Annati

The function of the Agency for the Welfare of Asylum Seekers (AWAS) is the
implementation of national legislation and policy concerning the welfare of
refugees, persons enjoying international protection and asylum seekers. In
practice, AWAS manages reception facilities, provides services to persons
identified as vulnerable, provides information programmes in the areas of
employment, housing, health, welfare and education, and promotes Government
schemes related to resettlement and assisted voluntary returns.
AWAS also acts as a facilitator between public entities responsible for providing
services to ensure that national obligations to refugees and asylum seekers
are accessible, and encourages networking between relevant local voluntary
organisations in Malta. It also advises the Government on new developments in
its field of operations and draws up reports for policy-making bodies.
This booklet has been produced in the framework of the Project: “Information
Sessions to Residents of Open Centres” (ERF 2013/04), co-financed by the
European Union through the European Refugee Fund.
The information contained in this booklet is not meant to be comprehensive as
each person’s circumstances are different and will need different types of advice
or support from AWAS.
However, the information in this booklet will help you with some of your immediate
concerns and indicate what services and assistance may be available to you in
Malta.
The information given in this publication is correct at the time of going to print but
may be subject to change at a later date.
AGENCY FOR THE WELFARE OF ASYLUM SEEKERS
12

CONTENTS
Introduction 4
Malta: A general overview 5
Education 7
Employment 21
Health and Hygiene 33
Housing 55
Budgeting & Social Skills 57
32

MALTA: A GENERAL OVERVIEW
The Republic of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of the Italian
island of Sicily and north of Libya. It is a parliamentary democracy and a member
of the European Union.
The country’s population is around 420,000 and its capital city is Valletta. Malta,
which has an area of 316 square kilometers, is one of the world’s smallest but most
densely populated countries. The country’s official religion is Catholicism; however,
the Maltese Constitution guarantees the right to practice different religions.
The small nation has a very rich history, which dates back to the prehistoric
ages. Over the years, the island has been conquered and populated by various
peoples. Malta achieved independence in 1964 and became a Republic in 1974.
Its two official languages are Maltese and English. The Maltese language is a
Semitic language and contains a number of words that derive from Arabic, Italian,
French and English.
Malta is a signatory of the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.
INTRODUCTION
This booklet has been produced by AWAS under its mandate which includes
to “provide information programmes to its clients in the areas of employment,
housing, education, health and welfare services offered under national schemes.”
This publication is designed to provide practical advice and information to those
who have applied for asylum in Malta on how to access services.
This is one of the various initiatives undertaken in Malta with the aim of facilitating
integration in Maltese society and familiarising asylum seekers with the proper
procedures to access public services.
This handbook is the result of the experience gained by AWAS in providing
support and counseling. It focuses on the relevant issues to achieve results
expected in the inclusion and integration processes carried out both at the EU
and national level.
The handbook also responds to what asylum seekers themselves have been
asking for, namely information on their social and economic rights and obligations
in Malta and on their empowerment and ability to organise themselves.
chapter 1
MALTA
54

EDUCATION
Malta’s educational system is divided into three main branches: six years in
primary education (from ages 5 to 11), five years of secondary education (from
ages 11 to 16) and tertiary education.
Education is compulsory between the ages of 5 and 16. Malta has two streams of
education: the public state-run system and the private/independent and Church-
administered system. Education is free in both state and Church institutions for
Maltese citizens, hence, non-Maltese citizens need to apply to be exempted from
educational fees.
Malta’s
Education
System
Primary Education Ages 5 to 11
Secondary Education Ages 11 to 16
Post-Secondary Education
Junior College
Higher Secondary School
Institute of Tourism Studies
(ITS)
Malta College of Arts,
Science and Technology
(MCAST)
Tertiary Education University of Malta
Compulsory education for children
All children aged between 5 and 16 must attend school, irrespective of their
immigration status. It is illegal for parents to prevent their children from going to
school.
chapter 2
76

AWAS staff is available to give all the information regarding children’s enrolment
in schools and financial support to cover costs such as school uniforms. One can
ask for guidance from AWAS staff at the open centre or during an intake session
at AWAS (Block C, Floriana every Monday and Thursday from 9am to 2pm).
Exemptions from educational fees are done through the Ministry of Education and
Employment (Great Siege Road, Floriana).
Moreover Learning Support Assistants are available in state schools for children
who need individual attention.
State schools
The State school sector draws its main inspiration from the British educational
system. There is a state primary school in almost all towns and villages. At secondary
school level, students study in order to sit for SEC exams at the age of 16 or older.
Kindergartens are available for all pupils from three years old upwards, but it is not
compulsory for children to attend school until they are five years old.
Church schools
About 30 per cent of the national student population attends the non-state sector,
mostly made up of Catholic Church schools run by religious orders. Church
schools cover the whole spectrum of education, from kindergarten to sixth form.
Private/independent schools
Although most schools from the non-state sector belong to the Catholic Church,
there are also other private schools. All the grades, from kindergarten to sixth
form, are covered.
Special education
A Special Education Section within the Education Department has been set up
to oversee issues related to persons with disability. The Department also offers
various services such as guidance, welfare, psychological, medical, and spiritual
counselling which are aimed at improving the quality of education offered.
Higher education
Post-secondary education and tertiary education is offered by three main sectors:

State education
GF Abela Junior College
Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School
Sir Michaelangelo Refalo Higher Secondary School (Gozo)
MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology)
University of Malta Compulsory and free education
98

Non-State education
Higher education in the non-State sector is offered by Church and independent
institutions.
Church institutions mainly offer Sixth Form education through Colleges run by
Catholic religious orders.
Independent/private institutions range from post-secondary, tertiary education to
vocational qualifications.
One can also find institutions that can offer post-secondary education, tertiary
education through foreign qualifications, vocational qualifications and English as
a foreign language.
Language skills
English, a legacy left by 164 years of British rule, is one of the two official languages
of Malta along with the Maltese language. Maltese, as well as English, is used with
children as early as kindergarten levels. In primary schools, pupils are mainly
instructed in Maltese in the early years, while English is increasingly used as the
language of instruction in the later years of primary schools. English becomes
predominant in secondary, higher-secondary and tertiary levels (being the main
language of instruction at the University of Malta).
English lessons
Learning to communicate in English is important to succeed in mainstream
English-speaking countries like Malta. Furthermore, knowledge of English can
create opportunities in international markets and regions.
In Malta one has to learn English before being able to enrol in other educational
programmes; in fact most educational and practical courses are in English.
English lessons are from time to time offered in open centres.
Outside open centres, there are many opportunities to learn English, among them:
Integra Foundation
Wednesday, 5.30-7.30pm at the Ministry of Education, Floriana. Call 9945 8222
for more information. Lessons are free.
Lifelong Learning
English courses are against payment at the same rate as Maltese citizens but may
be free on a case-by-case basis. Tel: 2598 2444/2598 2397/-2598 2261, email:
lifelonglearning@gov.mt, website: https://lifelonglearning.gov.mt/
St Andrew’s Scots Church, Valletta
Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Lessons are free but you need to register.
The church is located at the corner of South Street and Old Bakery Street, Valletta.
Address: 210 Old Bakery Street. Tel: 2141 5465.
Youth.Inc
Free English lessons for persons between 16 and 21 years. Address: St Joseph
High Road, St Venera, Tel: 2258 6700, E-mail: agenzija.zghazagh@gov.mt
Unilang (General Workers Union)
Monday to Friday at GWU, South Street, Valletta. You will need to pay for these
lessons. To apply, go to the GWU building and take your ID card with you.
The Employment and Training Corporation (ETC)
ETC offer free English lessons to foreign people. To apply one should be over 16
years of age and must sit for a pre-assessment to determine the current level of
knowledge.
Address: Quality Assurance Unit, ETC Training Complex, Hal Far.
Email: training.etc@gov.mt (when sending an email one has to state ID card/Police
number, attach copies of qualifications and a copy of the CV). Other courses
offered by ETC will be discussed further on in this booklet.
Vocational education and training
Vocational Education and Training include formal and informal learning. Malta
offers a wide range of options for those interested in pursuing learning. The most
relevant programmes are offered by the following institutions:
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Full-time and short
courses are available
at MCAST
12 13

The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) is the country’s
leading vocational education and training institution. Through its ten institutes in
Malta and Gozo, MCAST offers 170 full-time and over 300 part-time vocational
courses ranging from certificates to Masters degrees (MQF Level 1 to Level 7).
Students are prepared for careers in different sectors of the economy or for further
education. One of the advantages of studying at MCAST is that most of the courses
include both theory and practice; therefore, students are equipped with the required
skills and experience necessary for the workplace.
MCAST offers full-time and short courses. Applications for full-time courses
should be submitted by July for courses that start in September. Applications for
short courses are to be submitted in February or September. More information
can be obtained from MCAST’s website and in their prospectus which one can
collect from MCAST.
MCAST main campus
Triq Kordin, Paola PLA 9032
Tel: 2398 7100
Visit the MCAST website: www.mcast.edu.mt for a full list of the courses available
E-mail: information@mcast.edu.mt
Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning offers short courses to people who stopped studying or who
simply want to learn something new.
Lifelong learning takes the form of short courses and vocational qualifications.
Courses are against payment at the same rate as Maltese citizens but can be
free on a case-by-case basis. For a list of lifelong courses available please visit
their website: https://www.gov.mt/en/Services-And-Information/Business-Areas/
Education%20and%20Learning/Pages/Lifelong-Learning.aspx
Applications open in August/September for courses starting in October and in
November/December for courses starting in February.
Applications can be obtained and handed in at local councils, at the Ministry of
Education (Great Siege road, Floriana) or online.
Directorate for Lifelong Learning
Ministry of Education and Employment
Great Siege Road, Floriana
Tel: 2598 2444/2598 2397/2598 2261. Email: lifelonglearning@gov.mt
Website: https://lifelonglearning.gov.mt/
Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)
ITS is Malta’s main tourism and hospitality training college. The school year
starts in September; however there may be shorter courses throughout the year.
Exemptions of fees can be applied for through the Ministry of Education.
For more information on courses, go to ITS’ campus or visit their website:
ITS campus (Main Campus, St George’s Bay, St Julian’s)
Telephone: 2379 3100
E-mail: registrar.its@gov.mt
Website: www.its.edu.mt
Employment & Training Corporation (ETC)
ETC offers over 100 free courses, including welding, clerical courses and
business skills.
These courses are available to refugees, persons with subsidiary or temporary
humanitarian protection, asylum seekers and persons with a rejected status.
People with refugee status in Malta can also be offered training schemes such as
apprenticeships.
Application forms are available at any ETC centre and the list of courses can be
found on the ETC website: http://etc.gov.mt/Page/95/courses_list.aspx
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Reggie Miller Foundation (General Workers Union)
The Reggie Miller Foundation of the General Workers Union offers courses in
languages, tailoring, IT, mathematics, physics, customer care and others. Courses
are against payment.
Applications on their website (http://gwu.org.mt/pages/Reggie_Miller_Foundation.
aspx), or by e-mail: pbalzan@gwu.org.mt. Alternatively, one can visit their office in
South Street, Valletta or call 2567 9262/77
Youth.Inc
Youth.inc is an inclusive education programme, based on applied learning, for
young people between the age of 16 and 21. The aim of the programme is to help
young people to improve their standard of education and gain more knowledge,
values and skills to enter the labour market or to gain qualifications to continue in
further education and training. Courses include languages, food handling, music,
sports and others.
Entry requirements are a school leaving certificate and an ID card, however, for
refugees, persons with subsidiary protection, asylum seekers and persons with a
rejected status, these requirements may be removed.
Address: Agenzija Zghazagh, St Joseph High Road, St Venera
Tel: 2258 6700 E-mail: agenzija.zghazagh@gov.mt
Higher Education
To enroll in higher education in Malta, one needs to obtain qualifications at SECE
and MATSEC Level.
Secondary Education Certificate Examination (SECE)
In Malta, secondary schools prepare students to sit for the SEC examinations,
which will enable students to continue to advance their studies at a higher level.
In fact, those students who manage to acquire at least English, Maltese,
Mathematics, Physics and two other subjects can enroll at Junior College.
Those who do not manage to obtain the required amount of subjects have the
option to enroll at Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School, Naxxar, where
students can study to obtain the necessary SEC qualifications while at the same
time start attending classes to sit for Advanced Matriculation Examinations and
Intermediate Examinations (MATSEC) (for more information on A’Level exams, see
next paragraph).
A-Levels
At Junior College or other institutions such as Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary,
students are prepared to sit for the Advanced Level (A-Level) and Intermediate
Level exams. These exams will provide students with the necessary qualifications
and certificates to enter university.
University of Malta
The University of Malta is the highest teaching institution in Malta. The main
campus is situated in Msida. There are two other campuses, one in Valletta and
the other in Gozo, where part-time evening degree and diploma courses are
offered.
For more information contact the University’s International Admissions Office:
International Admissions Office
http://www.um.edu.mt/int-eu/international
Address:
Room 103, International Admission Office
Administration Building
University of Malta
Msida
Tel: 2340 2225
16 17

Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC)
People with certificates, qualifications and courses or trainings that were held in
countries outside Malta, need to check if their certificates are equivalent to the
Maltese qualifications. In order to do this one can contact MQRIC.
MQRIC is the official national body which deals with the recognition and
comparability of both academic and vocational qualifications.
Tel: 2754 0051/2180 1411/23810000
Address: National Commission for Further and Higher Education
Alamein Street, Pembroke.
E-mail: qric.malta@gov.mt
Website: http://www.ncfhe.org.mt/
Trade Testing
Trade Testing has been set up by the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC)
to assess individuals who have acquired knowledge, skills and competence in a
particular occupation but do not possess a formal qualification.
Candidates who successfully pass the Trade Test are awarded a Certificate of
Competence in that particular occupation. In order to sit for these assessments,
a candidate must have knowledge of English, as in most cases the written
component is carried out in this language.
Contact Information
Telephone: 2220 1302/8/9/10/11/13
E-mail: tradetest.etc@gov.mt
Website: http://etc.gov.mt/Category/4/87/trade-testing-employers.aspx
1918

CHAPTER 3
EMPLOYMENT
The benefits of legal employment
It is important to enter into legal employment since it greatly enhances the
possibility of successful integration and offers protection from exploitation at
work. Through legal employment, you cannot be paid less than the minimum
wage.
Employers cannot force you to work more than 48 hours per week (40 hours full
time plus 8 hours overtime).
For any additional information please refer to the Legislation Regulating Employment
in Malta: https://www.gov.mt/en/Life%20Events/Starting%20a%20new%20Job/
Pages/New-Job.aspx
The risks of Illegal Employment
It is strictly prohibited to work in the EU without a permit; EU rules set basic
standards on sanctions to be imposed on employers who hire unauthorised
migrant workers. It is a criminal offence to work illegally and those caught working
illegally can be prosecuted by the police.
While in illegal employment, there will be no records that you have worked at a
particular place. This means that if you have problems with your employer, for
example if s/he does not pay you the agreed wage, you will not have enough
evidence to take action to secure your right to be paid. You are also more prone to
be bullied at work due to the imbalance of power that exists. Illegal employment
usually means lack of health and safety at work, more abuse and lack of social
protection like injury at work benefits or sick leave. You will not be entitled to other
positive features of legal employment, such as bonus pay. In addition, since you
do not pay National Insurance (NI), you can end up without a pension when you
retire from work.
chapter 3
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Anyone who has worked illegally still has rights. The Department of Industrial and
Employment Relations is the authority to be contacted if you feel that you have
not been treated fairly at work.
For more information you can visit: http://ec.europa.eu/immigration/what-should-
i-avoid/rights-and-risks-of-an-irregular-stay/working-without-authorisation_
en#yourrights
Persons who are under 16 years cannot work in Malta.
Trade Unions
A Trade Union is an organization of workers formed for the purpose of advancing
its members’ interests in respect to wages, benefits, and working conditions. A
Trade Union will make sure that your employment rights are secured and they will
take action on your behalf if you were not treated fairly by your employer.
Trade union members are far less likely to be sacked on grounds of unfair dismissal
than non trade union members. Membership is confidential and the Union will not
tell your employer that you have joined a Union.
For more information about joining a trade union, please speak to an AWAS staff
member.
Employment License
Non EU citizens must have an employment license to be able to work in Malta.
An employment license costs €58 and to renew it, one has to pay €34. An
employment license is valid for one year, except for asylum seekers (valid for six
month) and persons with a rejected status (valid for three months).
The Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) is the authority responsible to
issue this license. To get an employment license, one needs to go to ETC Head
Office, Hal Far road, Hal Far. You need to take with you an application, ID card or
Residence Permit and RefCom Certificate.
Further information on the employment license can be obtained from the ETC
guidelines;
http://etc.gov.mt/Resources/file/ELU/2015/Guidelines_%20Employment%20
Licences%20Unitx.pdf
Lack of health
and safety
at work is dangerous
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Social Security
The law states that all those who are in employment, have to contribute social
security in order to be able to receive benefits after a significant amount of
contributions. Benefits include children’s allowance, maternity leave and benefits,
foster care allowances, sickness benefits and medical assistance, injury benefits and
pensions.
Social Security Contribution Percentages:
Employees pay 10% of their wage while the person employing you pays another
10% on top of that. Those who are self-employed pay 15% of their income.
Persons with Refugee Status are eligible to all benefits under the Social Security
Act. Persons enjoying Subsidiary Protection who are not living in open centres are
entitled to Core Benefits, which means Social Assistance only. The rate varies
as this benefit is means tested. Asylum seekers, persons enjoying Temporary
Humanitarian Protection and those have a rejected status are not entitled to any
non contributory benefits under the social security act.
Social Security District Offices (Malta)
Balzan District Office, 153, Triq il-Kbira.
Areas Covered: Balzan, Attard, Lija, Iklin
B’Kara District Office, Centru Civiku.
Area Covered: B’Kara.
Fgura District Office, Triq il-Kampanella.
Areas Covered: Fgura.
Hamrun District Office, 1, Triq l-Iskola.
Areas Covered: Hamrun, Pieta’, Santa Venera.
Luqa District Office , 89, Triq Pawlu Magri.
Areas Covered: Luqa, Gudja, Mqabba.
Marsa District Office, 84, Triq is-Salib.
Area Covered: Marsa.
Mosta District Office, Centru Civiku, Triq il-Parocca.
Areas Covered: Mosta, Mgarr.
Msida District Office, 174 / 175, Triq il-Wied. Areas Covered: Msida, Gzira.
Naxxar District Office, Centru Civiku, Vjal il-21 ta’ Settembru.
Areas Covered: Naxxar, Gharghur, Bahar ic-Caghaq, Madliena.
Paola District Office, 5, Centru Civiku, Pjazza Antoine De Paule.
Areas Covered: Paola, Tarxien, Santa Lucija.
Qawra District Office, ‘Kumpless Access’, Triq il-Frejgatina.
Areas Covered: San Pawl il-Bahar, Burmarrad, Mellieha, Manikata.
Social Security Offices (services extended to Local Councils)
Kunsill Lokali Birzebbuga, Dar Birzebbuga, Triq Santa Marija
Every Thursday between 8.00am - 12.00pm
Kunsill Lokali Gudja, 88, Triq Raymond Caruana
Every Wednesday between 8.00am - 12.00pm
Kunsill Lokali Hal Kirkop, 31, Triq San Benedittu
Every Wednesday fortnight between 8.00am - 12.00pm
Kunsill Lokali Hal Safi, 40, Dar il-Kunsill, Triq l-Iskola
Every Wednesday fortnight between 8.00am - 12.00pm
Kunsill Lokali Mellieha, 126, Triq il-Mithna l-Gdida,
(entrance from Triq il-Madonna ta’ Fatima)
Winter - every Friday between 8.00am - 12.00pm & between 1.00 - 4.00pm
Summer - every Wednesday & Friday between 8.00am - 12.00pm
Kunsill Lokali Swieqi, Silverdawn, Triq Sant’ Andrija
Every Thursday morning between 9.00am - 1.00pm
Social Security District Offices (Gozo)
Nadur District Office, 43, Triq il-Kappillan.
Areas Covered: Ghajnsielem, Nadur, Qala.
Victoria District Office, Centru Amministrattiv, Pjazza San Frangisk.
Areas Covered: Fontana, Gharb, Ghasri, Kercem, Munxar, San Lawrenz,
Sannat, Victoria, Xaghra, Xewkija, Zebbug.
Service Extended to Local Councils
Kunsill Lokali Qala, Centru Civiku Qala, Triq l-Isqof Mikiel Buttigieg
Every Friday between 8.00am - 12.00pm.
Kunsill Lokali Ta’ Sannat, Triq Sannat
Every Thursday between 8.00am - 12.00pm.
Kunsill Lokali Xaghra, Vjal 8 ta’ Settembru
Every Wednesday between 8.00am - 12.00pm.
Kunsill Lokali Xewkija, 2, Triq it-Torri Tingi
Every Tuesday between 8.00am - 12.00pm.
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Looking for a job
Job Hunting is an ongoing process and one should look for jobs regularly. All job
applications should have a covering letter accompanied by a Curriculum Vitae
(CV), copies of certificates and references. Applications for jobs can be either
typewritten or handwritten.
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a written document which highlights your work
experience, skills, educational background, language skills and contact details
such as mobile number, address and email. Simplicity, conciseness and precision
are recommended when writing a CV.
It is recommended that the standard European Curriculum Vitae format is used.
This can be downloaded from http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu
You can get assistance with writing your CV from a number of places: AWAS staff,
ETC, Jesuit Refugee Service and Integra Foundation.
Where to look for jobs:
Employment and Training Corporation’s (ETC) website:
https://secure.etc.gov.mt/ETCMalta/Jobseeker/JobSearch/JobSearch.aspx
This website contains an online vacancies database that can be searched by
industry, occupation and region. There is also a CV Search facility which employers
can use to search for job seekers.
ETC Head Office and Job Centres also advertise jobs.
ETC Job Centres
Valletta, St. Zachary Street, Valletta. Tel. No: 2124 9531/2/3/4.
Email: valletta.etc@gov.mt
Mosta, St. Anne Street, Mosta. Tel. No: 2142 1286/7.
Email: mosta.etc@gov.mt
Birgu (Vittoriosa), Kumpless Access, St. Edward Street, Birgu.
Tel. No: 2398 5151/2. Email: cottonera.etc@gov.mt
Victoria (Gozo), Ministry of Gozo, St. Francis Square, Victoria, Gozo.
Tel. No: 2155 6086. Email: rabat.etc@gov.mt
Qawra, Kumpless Access, Frejgatina Street, Qawra.
Tel. No: 2157 4848. Email: qawra.etc@gov.mt
Birkirkara, Civic Centre, Tumas Fenech Street, Birkirkara.
Tel. No: 2144 2494. Email: employment.etc@gov.mt
Zejtun, c/o Paolo Freire Institute, Dar Guze Delia, 16, Misrah Dicembru 13,
Zejtun ZTN 102
People with a Refugee Status can register with ETC:
If you have refugee status, you can also register for work with ETC and be
listed in ETC’s Part 1, 2 or 3 of the Unemployment Register.
For your first time registration you should visit ETC’s Jobseekers Registration
Unit at 72, Kumpless Access, Melita Street, Valletta.
You need to take: your ID Card, your National Insurance/Social Security
Card, a Termination Form of your previous employment (if you have one),
any certificates of qualifications, your CV and the registration form – which
is available from any ETC office or online (http://etc.gov.mt/Category/5/72/
Forms.aspx?1=1#jobseekers-forms).
Part 1 of the Register is for persons who have never worked, or who have
been made redundant. Persons on Part 1 of the Register may be eligible for
unemployment benefits.
Part 2 is for persons who resigned from their previous job, who have missing
documents, were dismissed, or who have been removed from Part 1 of the
Register.
Part 3 is for persons who are already in employment but who would like to be
notified of other work opportunities.
By registering, refugees are required to attend a Jobsearch Seminar.
Refugees are then assigned an Employment Advisor who will support and
guide them. Refugees will very likely be referred to training programmes or to
employment schemes or other initiatives. If refugees do not participate, they
will be taken off the register and lose any related benefits.
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Newspapers (printed and online)
Most newspapers advertise jobs, especially the Sunday papers.
Timesofmalta.com has a section called ‘Classified’ where you can look for jobs
under ‘Situations Vacant’.
Other websites
http://maltapark.com/jobs/jobs.aspx
http://www.youth.org.mt/?m=vacancies
http://www.maltajobs.com.mt/
http://malta.xpatjobs.com/
http://www.8am.com.mt/
http://www.learn4good.com/jobs/language/english/list/country/malta/
http://jobs.justlanded.com/en/Malta
Recruitment Agencies
A recruitment agency is a private company that can help you find the right job.
Recruitment agencies may charge a fee for their services. These are some
recruitment agencies in Malta:
Konnekt. Address: Capital Business Centre, Entrance C, level 2, Triq taz-
Zwejt San Gwann. Tel: 2123 4010. Email: info@konnekt.com
Misco. Address: Fino Buildings, Notabile Road,
Mriehel. Tel: 2122 0303, 2205 4000. Email: info@miscomalta.com
Vacancy Centre. Address: Tower Business Centre, Swatar.
Tel: 2123 2224-5. Email: jobs@vacancycentre.com
Other ways of finding a job
Visit companies and hand in a covering letter and your CV in person. You can
follow up by calling those companies some days later.
Going for a job interview
Be on time for the interview. Being late will probably mean that you will not get the
job. Dress and act smart. Be prepared for questions such as ‘why do you want
this job?’ and ‘what are your strengths and weaknesses?’ Answer all questions
truthfully and if you do not understand a question, ask the employer to repeat.
Take relevant documents with you during the interview, such as your ETC work
permit and ID card. If you cannot attend an interview (for example because you
are sick), inform the employer immediately.
When you find work
Be sure to understand what is expected from you at work, for example the tasks
you need to do and what time you need to go to work.
Keep a diary with important dates (hospital appointments, meetings, etc) and
your work schedule so that you avoid missing important appointments. Make
sure that when you get paid, you are given a pay-slip. Keep a record of when you
worked and from what time to what time.
You will need to understand your employer’s work policies and abide by them.
These policies can include acceptable behavior at work, sexual harassment,
what to do when you are sick (for example provide a medical certificate), respecting
your colleagues and managers irrespective of race, age, nationality, religion,
gender and sexual orientation.
2928

Children can be
taken care of at
childcare centres
while parents are
at work
3130

Childcare Centres and Klabb 3-16
Parents of children between 0 to 16 years of age are provided with places such
as childcare centers so that their children can be taken care of while their parents
are at work.
If you have children between 0 to 3 years, you can benefit from a free childcare
centre while you are at work. Your children will be interacting with other children
of their age and improve their social skills. There are a number of government-
approved childcare centers in Malta and Gozo. Talk to AWAS staff if you would
like to explore this option.
For children between 3 and 16 years, there is Klabb 3-16, a service to provide
care after school. During this time, children can work on their homework and
engage in creative activities.
If you need additional information contact the Directorate for Educational Services,
School Resources Department, Great Siege Road, Belt is-Sebh, Floriana, Tel:
2598 2000
HEALTH & HYGIENE
What is ‘HEALTHCARE’?
Healthcare is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease, illness, injury,
and other physical and mental impairments in humans. Healthcare is delivered by
practitioners in medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and other care providers.
The Government delivers primary healthcare mainly through a number of Health
Centres that offer a full range of preventive, curative and rehabilitative services.
Health System in Malta
Malta enjoys a high standard of medical care. Medical facilities are available
through the regional health centres and three general hospitals. There are also
specialised clinics and a number of private hospitals.
Medical insurance is advisable if seeking care in private clinics and hospitals.
In Malta, the Government provides free comprehensive health services to all
residents, which are funded from general taxation. All residents have access to
preventive, investigative, curative and rehabilitative services in Government Health
Centres and Hospitals.
Persons with a low income are ‘means tested’ by the Department of Social
Security. If they qualify for assistance, they receive a card which entitles them to
free medicines. Moreover, a person who suffers from one or more of a specified
list of chronic diseases is also entitled to receive free treatment for his/her ailment,
irrespective of financial means.
Primary Health Care Centres & Maltese Referral system
The Government delivers primary health care through a number of Health Centres
(listed in the chart in the next page) that offer a full range of preventive, curative
and rehabilitative services.
chapter 4
3332

The general practitioner and nursing services are supplemented by various
specialised services that include antenatal and postnatal clinics, Well Baby clinics,
gynaecology clinics, diabetes clinics, ophthalmic clinics, psychiatric clinics, podiatric
clinics, physiotherapy, and speech therapy and language pathology clinic.
Community nursing and midwifery services are provided by the Malta Memorial
District Nursing Association (MMDNA) on a contract basis.
The Government’s Health Centre system works side by side with a thriving private
sector and many residents opt for the services of private general practitioners and
specialists who work in the primary care setting.
Hospitals in Malta and Gozo
Mater Dei Hospital (General Hospital) tel. 25450000
Mount Carmel Hospital (Psychiatric Hospital) tel. 21415183
Saint Luke’s Hospital tel. 21241251
Sir Paul Boffa Hospital (Dermatology and Spinal Injuries) tel. 21423838
General Hospital Gozo tel. 21561600
Regional Health Centres
Health Centre Time
Paola Monday to Sunday- 8am to 8am (24 x 7)
Mosta Monday to Sunday- 8am to 8am (24 x 7)
Gzira Opens Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm.
Saturdays, Sundays and Public holidays from 8am
to 5pm. From 8 pm to 8 am, patients to attend
Floriana Health Centre.
Floriana Monday to Sunday- 8am to 8am (24 x 7)
Rabat Monday to Friday- 8am to 8pm
Saturdays- 8am to 1pm
From 8 pm to 8 am, and on Sundays and Public
holidays patients to attend Mosta Health Centre.
Qormi Monday to Friday-8am to 8pm
Saturdays- 8am to 1pm
holidays patients to attend Floriana Health Centre.
Cospicua Monday to Friday-8am to 8pm
Saturdays-8am to 1pm.
holidays patients to attend Paola Health Centre.
Birkirkara Monday to Friday- 8am to 8pm.
From 8pm to 8am, weekends and Public Holidays
patients to attend Mosta Health Centre.
Victoria (Gozo) Monday to Friday- 8am to 8pm
Saturday- 8am to 1pm
Health Centre Which Health centre should you attend if you live
in:
Cospicua Health
Centre
Triq Ljun
Tel: 21675492 /
21673292-3
Cospicua, Vittoriosa, Senglea, & Kalkara
Rabat Health Centre
Civic Centre, Pjazza
San Pawl
Tel: 21 459082
Rabat, Mdina, Dingli, Attard, Bidnija & Kuncizzjoni
Gzira Health Centre
Pjazza Meme’
Scicluna
Tel: 21344766
Msida, Ta’ Xbiex, Gzira, Sliema, Kappara, San
Gwann, Taz-Zwejt, St. Julian’s, Swieqi,
L-Ibrag, St.Andrew’s,Pembroke, High Ridge and
Victoria Gardens
Gozo Health Centre
Triq it-Tabib Anton
Tabone, Victoria
Tel: 21561600
Gozo
Services offered at Health Centres
You may need a referral note from a doctor (general practitioner) before making
an appointment in some specialised clinics in the list below.
1. General practitioner (GP) and nursing services, and other
2. Minor surgical procedures
3. Diabetes clinics
4. Well Baby Clinic
5. Immunisation
6. Speech therapy
7. Antenatal, Gynae & postnatal clinic
8. Ophthalmic clinic
9. Medical consultant clinic
10. Psychiatric clinic
11. X-Ray
12. Podology clinic
3534

Medicine & Pharmacies
A medicine is a product that is used to treat or prevent diseases. It is important to
always read the information in the package leaflet. Read the information on how
to store your medicine, as high temperatures (such as those reached in the
bathroom or kitchen) can affect the medicine’s quality and efficacy. Always check
the medicine’s expiry date. If you experience a side effect that you did not expect
because of the medicine you are taking, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Medicines can be supplied from pharmacies all over Malta. Some medicines are
classified as Prescription-Only Medicines and others as Non Prescriptions.
Prescription-Only medicines are those medicines that can only be bought if a
medical professional prescribes them.
The doctor will decide on the best treatment for you, which may not involve any
medications. Many conditions can be cured without medicine, such as colds and
other viral infections.
There may be severe interactions between different medicines and have significant
side-effects when taken together. It is always important to inform a medical
professional if you are currently on any medication. Medicines should never be
shared with other people.
You may be able to receive free medicines from the government pharmacy. There
are two government pharmacies: one in Paola and one in Floriana. You would
need to apply for vouchers from the government pharmacies. Your medicine will
be given to you if it is a government formulary item and on presentation of
vouchers. An application for vouchers will be given to you on your first visit to the
pharmacist. Once this is compiled and submitted, vouchers will be issued.
Other medicines
In order to become entitled to receive free medications under the Schedule
V scheme, patients suffering from the listed conditions must be referred to a
Consultant within the Government Health Service.
The Consultant can apply for a Schedule V card for the patient, listing the
medicines required by the patient. Such cards cannot be transferred from one
patient to another. The Schedule V card is issued from the Schedule V Office, St.
Luke’s Hospital, St. Luke’s road, Gwardamangia.
Patients holding Schedule V cards are only entitled to those medicines listed on
the card. Patients suffering from different chronic conditions usually have more
than one card.
Doctors decide on
the best treatment
for you
3736

These conditions include:
· Hypertension
· Diabetes Mellitus
· Chronic Heart Failure
· Asthma
· Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (chronic bronchitis)
· Treatment for hypercholesterolemia (very high levels of cholesterol in the
blood under the respective Schedule V conditions
· Chronic Mood Disorders (Depression)
· Chronic Neurotic Disorders (high levels of anxiety)
Referrals & Appointments
A doctor may suggest visiting a specialist for further tests or investigations which
may be performed either at Mater Dei Hospital or Boffa Hospital.
Usually you will receive an appointment for such a test from the hospital to your
residency address.
Please take time to read the instructions on the appointment form carefully. If you
do not understand any part of it, you are advised to ask a health provider at your
health centre.
IMPORTANT - You should ALWAYS change your address on your ID card
and inform hospital if you move out of the open centre or change residence.
Appointments
To avoid any disruption of the service, you should be on time for medical
appointments. If you arrive late you may miss the test or postpone the appointment.
Emergencies
Emergency treatment is provided at the Emergency department of Mater Dei
Hospital which operates a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What is an emergency?
An emergency is when there is immediate and serious risk to health, life, or
property. Call the EMERGENCY NUMBER 112. You should not call 112 if it is not
an emergency.
Sexual Health
Transmitted Infections and Infectious Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Venereal
Diseases are commonly spread through sexual activity.
These infections include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Hepatitis B, Herpes, HIV,
Human Papilloma Virus, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis and Candida. These infections
can be transmitted through seminal or vaginal fluid and blood. Some STIs can be
passed from person to person by genital contact without penetration. Infection
can also be passed through oral and anal sex.
If you have any of the following symptoms you should see the doctor without delay:
· Itching sores, lumps, pain, blisters and rashes in the genital area
· Unusual discharges from penis or vagina
· Burning sensation or pain during urination or during sex
· Warts or blisters on genital areas and surrounding areas
· Swollen genitals
· Women bleeding between periods and/or during sexual intercourse.
If you are having or have had unprotected sex you could be at risk. You should see
a doctor to be tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). In case you are
sexually active with only one partner and you do not make use of a condom, ask
for advice by making an appointment at the GU Clinic.
3938

Genitourinary (GU) Clinic
Mater Dei Hospital
Clinic Direct Line: 22987115 (For appointment: 21227981)
At the GU Clinic tests are kept confidential.

Services delivered at the GU Clinic:
Diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections;
Counselling and testing for HIV;
Other genital conditions not necessarily sexually acquired.
Infectious diseases
TB- Tuberculosis (TB):
TB is a communicable disease that can be spread from person to person through
the air. If you have pulmonary tuberculosis, people who are near you can become
infected.
Symptoms of TB: A cough that lasts two weeks or more, especially if fluid or
blood comes out from the lungs when you cough. Other symptoms include fever,
weight loss and loss of appetite.
Chicken Pox
Chicken pox is a common disease among children and usually occurs one time
only in a person. It manifests itself with an itchy rash of spots that look like blisters
all over the body and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms. Symptoms
usually go away without treatment, but because the infection is very contagious,
an infected child should stay home and rest until the symptoms are gone.
How to stop chicken pox from spreading: Chicken pox is very contagious
from about 2 days before the rash appears and lasts until all the blisters are
crusted over. A person with chicken pox should stay away from other people until
the blisters have dried up, usually about 1 week. In order to keep the virus from
spreading, make sure you wash your hands frequently, especially before eating
and after using the bathroom.
Signs and symptoms include: Fever, abdominal pain, sore throat, headache, a
sick feeling a day or two before the rash appears, a red itchy rash on abdomen,
back and face at first, several small red bumps which develop into blisters. The
blister becomes an open sore, which crusts over to become dry, brown scabs.
Scabies
Scabies is caused by a mite. It burrows into the skin to produce intense itching,
which tends to be worse at night. Not every type of itching is caused by scabies.
Transmission of the mites occurs through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, which
includes sexual contact. However, you will not get scabies through shaking hands.
Signs and symptoms include: Small red blisters affecting the webs between
the fingers, the wrists, the backs of the elbows, the knees, around the waist and
umbilicus, the axillaries folds, the areas around the nipples, the sides and backs
of the feet, the genital area, the buttocks.
Disease Spread and Prevention
Wash your hands often and thoroughly using soap & water after using the toilet,
after sneezing or coughing, after touching animals and before touching food.
Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing. Do not spit since this
can spread the disease. Do not leave food uncovered. Shower daily with soap
and brush your teeth for your personal hygiene.
Child Health Care
Pregnancy care consists of prenatal (before birth) and postnatal (after birth)
healthcare for expectant mothers. It involves treatments and trainings to ensure
a healthy pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and birthing process for the mother and for
the child.
4140

Ante-Natal Clinic (Pre-Natal Care)
Antenatal care is the care you receive from healthcare professionals during
your pregnancy. The purpose of antenatal care is to monitor your health, your
baby’s health and support you to make plans which are right for you. It is very
important to monitor your pregnancy. You should make an appointment at Mater
Dei Hospital Antenatal Clinic (tel. 2545 4440) after having obtained a referral ticket
from your doctor.
Antenatal care is important to ensure that the pregnant woman and her fetus are
in the best possible health, to detect early and treat complications; to prepare
the woman for labor, lactation and care of her infant. Mater Dei Hospital offers
education for parenthood (parent craft courses).
Post-Natal Care
The postnatal period lasts six to eight weeks, beginning right after the baby is
born. During this period, the mother goes through many physical and emotional
changes while learning to care for her newborn. Postnatal care involves getting
proper rest, nutrition, and vaginal care. It is important to prevent complications of
Children’s health
must always be given
attention
4342

postpartum period, to provide care for rapid restoration of the mother to optimum
health, to check adequacy of breast feeding, to provide family planning services
and to provide basic health education to parents.
Post-Natal Care and Services in Malta
Community Nursing and Midwifery
After the birth of your baby, a midwife will be on-hand to visit you in your home
and guide you on the right care for your new arrival.
MMDNA Visits: The Postnatal domiciliary midwifery service consists of four visits
by an MMDNA midwife to the mother and her child after being discharged from
Hospital. If problems are still pending after the fourth visit, extra visits are given.
During these post natal visits, the midwife will examine the mother and her child
and answer any queries the parents may have.
Around six weeks after the birth, mothers will be advised to make an appointment
with their doctor. The doctor will be able to give the mother a check up and see how
she is coping. This is a good time to ask any questions that mothers may have,
including on how they are feeling, especially if they are tired, low or depressed.
Well-baby Clinic
A well-baby exam involves measurements, vaccines and an evaluation of the
baby’s development. Doctors from the Primary Child Health and Immunisation
Unit carry out Well Baby Clinics in all Health Centres on a daily basis according
to a fixed timetable. Mothers who deliver their babies at Mater Dei Hospital are
invited to bring their baby to the Well Baby Clinic by appointment.
These clinics serve the purpose of clinical examinations and developmental
assessments for babies between the ages of 6 weeks and 18 months. Three
routine visits are carried out at 6 weeks, 8 months and 18 months respectively.
This service is also offered to babies born in private hospitals or at home and
in this case, parents are requested to phone the Health Centre in their area for
details of the day when Well Baby Clinic is held in that Centre.
National Immunisation Service
The National Immunisation Service is responsible for the administration of all
vaccines given to the public. The Immunisation Unit at Floriana Health Centre
coordinates all vaccinations given from each health centre as well as some
services given in the community and hospitals. All clinics in the health centres
carry out the scheduled vaccinations for infants, children and adolescents.
The scheduled vaccines for infants and children up to 16 years are free of charge.
Persons at high risk of certain vaccine-preventable diseases are also vaccinated
free of charge and these include persons in particular jobs.
Immunizations Clinic – At Floriana Health Centre
Monday to Saturday
For appointments call on 25680222/3
After giving birth to your baby, it is very important to take care of the immunisations
of the child. This is also important for the child’s development, as this continues
to be followed up by the Immunisations Clinic during later stages of the child’s
development. These are given free of charge from an infant stage up to 16 years.
Immunisation protects your child from many serious infections.
4544

Emotional & Mental Health
What is Emotional Health?
Mental health is a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own
abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and
fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.
You can be suffering from emotional disorders; you may be feeling sad, depressed,
stressed, tired and worried. You may experience problems eating and sleeping,
experience bad moods, anxiety and apathy. You may feel a generalized body pain
such as headache, chest pain and stomach pain.
What you should do: try to speak to someone you trust (friends or family) and
spend time with them; try to engage in sports and physical exercise, like playing
football or any other activity; try to sleep well.
If you don’t see any improvement after all these attempts, see a psychologist or a
doctor.
The Mental Health Services, including Mount Carmel Hospital (MCH) and the
community services, is an integral part of the health system in Malta.
When one needs support and treatment with regard to his or her mental health,
one can seek help by visiting a doctor at a Health Center. People who would need
to be kept in hospital for treatment will be either admitted to Mount Carmel
Hospital or the Psychiatric Unit at Mater Dei Hospital. Once people become
mentally stable to go out of hosipital and back into the community, they can be
followed up by the Outreach Team of Mount Carmel Hospital.
You should not feel ashamed or embarassed if you are suffering from mental
health conditions.
Help is available
for mental health
conditions
4746

HYGIENE
What is Hygiene?
Hygiene refers to conditions and practices that help to maintain health and
prevent the spread of diseases. Medical hygiene includes a set of practices
associated with this preservation of health, for example environmental cleaning,
sterilization of equipment, hand hygiene, water and sanitation and safe disposal
of medical waste. Hygiene also refers to practices associated with ensuring health
and cleanliness.
Maintenance of health and healthy living include: Bathing, keeping the mouth
clean, keeping the skin protected from infection and washing hands before
handling food.
Good hygiene keeps you protected from germs in the environment that can hurt
you. Bad hygiene allows these things to negatively affect your body or probably
make you sick.
Examples of bad / poor hygiene are: not bathing as needed, not taking care of
one’s teeth, and not properly disposing of human waste. It is poor hygiene to
handle foods with hands that haven’t been recently washed.
Why does poor hygiene cause sickness?
The dirt and bacteria that accumulate on the body and in the environment over
time can contribute to sickness.
Plaque gathers on the teeth, making them weaker, and, over time, possibly
spreads to the gums.
Environmental hazards such as the improper disposal of human waste can cause
sickness since this waste will become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Dusts in high quantities can settle in the air and be harmful to the lungs. Various
chemical and environmental factors can weigh heavily on the human body and
cause an individual to become sick.
Communicable diseases
A communicable disease is a disease that is transmitted through direct contact
with an infected individual or indirectly through an organism.
These may be diseases of the respiratory tract, intestinal disorders, infectious
hepatitis, dysentery, typhoid fever, staphylococci (boils, acne, infected cuts). A
person may be a carrier (no symptoms), convalescent (less than 10 weeks after
Always think
of good hygiene
4948

acquiring disease), chronic (carries it indefinitely) or contact (carries but does not
get sick).
Transmission of Germs
Germs can be transmitted in many ways including: through dirty hands, through
droplet release during cough or a sneeze via air, through contaminated surfaces,
and through contact with a sick person’s body fluid.
Personal Hygiene
Personal Hygiene is the prevention of infection through cleanliness and the
maintenance of health and healthy living. Maintaining a good level of personal
hygiene is necessary for many reasons; personal, social, health and psychological.
Keeping a good standard of hygiene helps prevent the development and
spread of infections, illnesses and bad odours. Personal hygiene is an essential
consideration for all people, helping them stay odour-free and healthy. It is
therefore vital that a daily personal hygiene routine is followed.
How to keep skin clean
Your skin is constantly protecting you and keeps your infections out of your body.
Wash your body all over at least once a day by using soap and warm water.
Hand Washing
Most health care-associated infections are preventable through good hand
hygiene at the right times and in the right way. Hand washing is the single most
effective way to prevent the spread of infections. Wash your hands often and
thoroughly, paying special attention to the area around and under your fingernails.
Always wash your hands when arriving to work; before touching food; after
touching animals; whenever you feel that your hands are not clean; after using
the rest room; after removing gloves; before leaving work at the end of the day.
Healthy Teeth and Gums
The health and cleanliness of your mouth is important since if you do not brush
and floss your teeth, cavities (holes in your teeth) may form and your breath will
probably smell bad.
Feet and Shoes
Sweat glands are present in our feet and for that reason everyone should wash
their feet at least once a day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
Sweat gets into your shoes and as a result, bacteria multiply in the moist leather
and fabric. Good personal hygiene
can prevent infections
5150

Body Odour
Sweating is vital; however its odour is unpleasant and increases with physical
activity, stress, excitement, nervousness and warmth. Body odour can be
effectively managed through daily showers and baths, changing clothes daily and
using a deodorant.
Food Hygiene and Food Safety
Food hygiene describes the preservation and preparation of foods in a manner
that ensures that food is safe for human consumption. This process of kitchen
safety includes proper storage of food items prior to use, maintaining a clean
environment when preparing food and making sure that all serving dishes are
clean and free of bacteria that could lead to some type of contamination. Maintain
good food and cooking hygiene to prevent food poisoning.
Food safety refers to preparing, storing and cooking food to keep it free from
harmful bacteria or toxins. Simple measures such as washing your hands before
preparing food and after touching raw meat, and storing raw meat separately
from cooked meat, are important starting points.
It is especially important to think about food hygiene when catering for children,
pregnant women and elderly people, for whom food poisoning can have more
serious consequences.
Food labels often give you storage, preparation and cooking instructions, which
you should follow. Do not ignore ‘best before’ dates, as the product may not be
safe to eat or drink after this date.
How to prepare food safely
Before you start preparing food, always wash your hands with soap and hot
water. Do not forget to dry your hands as germs spread more easily in moist
conditions.
Uncooked meat, poultry, eggs and fish can easily contaminate other foods,
utensils and surfaces, so make sure you wipe surfaces and wash up as soon as
you finish preparing raw foods.
Common Food borne Illnesses
Illnesses Potential Sources
Salmonella and
Campylobacter
Poultry
Meat
Eggs
Unpasteurized milk/dairy products
Raw produce
Listeria Raw milk
Soft cheese
Luncheon meats/hot dogs
Raw produce
E. Coli Raw/undercooked meat
Raw produce
Unpasteurized milk
Infections and its Symptoms
Food borne illness occurs through contaminated foods that carry microbes into
the body. Some microbes can overcome the body’s defenses and cause infections.
Typical symptoms are nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
Ensuring Food Safety at Home
· Wash the food product before cutting, cooking or eating
· Wash utensils and cutting boards after each use
· Keep kitchen surfaces clean
· Keep raw meat and ready-to-eat foods separate
· Refrigerate food promptly to below 4.4ºC
· Pay close attention to ‘best before’ dates
· Store raw meat on bottom shelf of refrigerator
· Store washed products in clean container
· Wash plates between uses or use separate plates
· Wear disposable gloves if you have a cut or sore
· Use two cutting boards; one for raw meat, poultry and seafood and a separate
one for ready-to-eat foods. After cutting raw meat, poultry and seafood, wash,
rinse and sanitize boards
Personal hygiene is the first step to good health. Elementary cleanliness is common
knowledge. Neglect causes problems that you may not even be aware of.
5352

HOUSING
As an asylum seeker in Malta, you can be accommodated at one of the open
centres that are run by AWAS. Staying in an open centre will provide you with
accommodation which includes assitance from trained members of staff. AWAS
is committed to helping asylum seekers particularly during their initial time in
Malta. While in an open centre, you are encouraged to attend education courses,
work or do both. AWAS staff members are available to help you identify courses
or job opportunities that might interest you.
Living in an open centre is not a permanent option. Asylum seekers are encouraged
to become independent to be able to move into the community as part of an
effective integration process.
Finding accommodation in Malta
The sale and rental of property is advertised in local newspapers and by estate
agents. The availability of property in Malta varies from one locality to another.

Rental of property
The rental market has seen an increase in both supply and in demand in recent
years and is expected to continue to grow. The availability of rented property
varies from one locality to another.
A rental agreement is normally drawn up in writing by both parties. In Malta, most
rental apartments are offered fully furnished and rent is usually paid one month
in advance. The owner may ask for an advance payment of up to three month’s
rent as a guarantee. It is important to keep in mind that once you are living
independently, you have to pay extra for utilities such as water, electricity, bottled
gas, telephone, internet and other costs related to your daily living expenses such
as clothes, food and medicines. The cost of living can vary greatly depending on
your lifestyle, habits, budget and spending habits.
chapter 5
5554

BUDGETING & SOCIAL SKILLS
Budgeting
A good budget helps you spend less money than what you earn. When you
spend more than you earn, it can put strain on your whole family.
A budget can help you save money and avoid debt. It will also help you to spend
money on the things you really need, set aside money for unexpected costs or for
times when your earnings drop and save money for things you want such as
buying a car.
The first step is to work out how much money you need for your everyday
essentials such as electricity, food, rent or house loan and transport. After you
have accounted for all your essentials, you can check how much money you have
left to either buy some of the things you want but are not essential or to save
money for emergencies and your long-term goals.
You cannot always buy everything you want, whenever you want it. You have to
plan in advance. We will find that there are lots of things that we might want to buy
but that we do not have enough money for. A budget will help us to decide what
we can buy now and what we can save for the future.
You need a budget:
· To live a life without debts
· To better meet your needs
· To understand and accept your limitations
· To know where your money goes
· For future planning and savings
Know the difference between needs and wants. Everyone has a limited amount
of money they can use to buy things they need or want. This is why it is important
to make smart choices about how to spend money.
chapter 6
5756

How to reduce expenses
Work out what you are spending your money on. What you will need first is a clear
idea of where your money is going, then you can look at ways to cut extra costs
and lower the cost of your required living expenses. Always keep in mind that it is
not just about cheaper; it is about efficiency.
Reducing utilities expenses
Electricity
It is important to switch off the lights before you leave home or before going to
bed. Leaving lights on will only consume extra energy which will increase your
bills. Electricity is expensive. Turn off your computer or laptop when you are not
using it. Any voltage adapters (including the ones in stereo components) use
electricity, even if they are not charged or plugged into the device. Only use
electricity when you need it. Clean the radiator on the back of your refrigerator
since if it is dirty it will hinder the efficiency of one of the larger consumers of
energy in your household. Use modern energy saving light bulbs.
Water
If you save water you also save money. Repair any leaky toilets since this is an
enormous waste of water and easy to fix. If you are not using the water, turn the
tap off: for example while brushing your teeth do not leave the water running all
the time.
Gas and miscellaneous
Reduce the temperature of your shower by a couple of degrees; the less work
your water heater does, the more money you will save. Open the windows when
it is nice outside to reduce heating and cooling costs. Make sure you keep your
refrigerator and freezer closed at all times.
TV and telephone
Buy a package that includes internet, TV and landline because it can be cheaper.
For your telephone, shop around based on your needs. If you make many long-
distance calls to family and friends, perhaps one of the unlimited plans would
save you money. If all your calls are local, you probably can get by with basic
options. Consider that your mobile phone may have free long distance calls which
would remove the need of having long distance calls on a landline.
Spending less on food and drink
Avoid large packages of fresh produce to avoid spoilage; frozen produce will
extend the shelf life of all your fruit and vegetables. Buy fresh foods that are in
season. They will cost less than the fresh food flown in from other countries.
Consider making your lunch for work instead of buying lunch every day.
Avoid food
wastage by
planning
meals
58 59

Social Skills
Social skills are the skills we use to communicate and interact with each other,
both verbally and non-verbally, through gestures, body language and our personal
appearance.
Human beings are sociable creatures and we have developed many ways to
communicate our messages, thoughts and feelings with others. Most social skills
are learned by repeated visual observation and connecting those visual images
(such as facial expressions and body language) to language that help us develop
and understand concepts of social behavior.
Social skills are important since they help to share ideas with others; listen when
others are speaking; take turns and share; compromise; accept different points of
views; negotiate in order to build consensus; take appropriate risks without fear
of failing; respect another person’s belongings and physical space; praise others;
let people know when they have done well and not being mean when they have
not; be assertive; be polite and courteous; use good manners when talking,
eating or in public; respect ourselves, others and property, and accept
responsibility for what we say or do.
Time management:
It is important that you develop effective strategies for managing your time to
balance the conflicting demands of time for study, leisure, earning money and job
hunting. Time management skills are valuable in job hunting, but also in many
other aspects of life: from revising for examinations to working.
Sometimes it may seem that there isn’t enough time to do everything that you
need to. This can lead to stress. Once we have identified ways in which we can
improve the management of our time, we can begin to adjust our routines and
patterns of behaviour to reduce any time-related stress in our lives.
What skills are required for effective time management?
Some of these skills include setting clear goals, breaking your goals down into
discreet steps, and reviewing your progress towards your goals through an action
plan.
Other skills involved include prioritising, which means focusing on urgent and
important tasks rather than those that are not important and that do not help you
towards achieving your goals; organising your work schedule; making lists to
remind you of what you need to do and when you need to do them; and
persevering when things are not working out the way you thought and avoiding
procrastination.
The ability to stay calm in social situations
Regardless of how many social skills you have; if you’re anxious then your brain
will not work properly. It is always harder to think and speak clearly when we
become agitated. Calming down is vital. But relaxing in social situations helps in
another way too. If your body and face give the unconscious message that you
are nervous, it will be more difficult for others to relax with you and this makes it
harder for you to build rapport with them.
Listening skills
Active listening helps us understand others better and showing others that we
respect them even when we do not agree with them. Active listening allows us to
receive accurate messages and therefore enables us to respond appropriately.
It is important to show the speaker that their message has been heard.
How do we listen effectively?
First, it helps to be well prepared. One good way to prepare is by “centering”
oneself, letting go of one’s own personal considerations. This might be done in a
variety of ways; meditation, a few moments of quite prayer or by focusing on your
breathing (breathing in and out slowly).
Second, we can listen with undivided attention, so as to really understand what
it is like for the speaker.
Third, we might use our body to say “I’m listening,” through eye contact, nodding
our head, and using sounds that confirm that we are listening.
Fourth, we can sometimes observe pauses and silences and avoid the urge to
comment or ask a question whenever there is an opportunity.
Finally, we can repeat words or phrases and include both facts and feelings. It is
not useful to judge or evaluate, but it often helps to describe empathetically what
the speaker has said about what happened and how she or he felt or feels. It
takes practice and discipline.
6160

Always be ready to
talk as well as to listen
6362

Ways to listen effectively
· Create a positive atmosphere with your body language.
· Make appropriate eye contact.
· Nod your head, use facial expressions and gestures.
· Orient your body towards the speaker (head, arms and legs).
· Watch your tone of voice.
· Be encouraging: “Tell me more” or “I’d like to hear about….”
· Summarise the speaker’s main points. Use summaries to focus on terms of
issues and solvable problems, instead of personalities, and to keep parties
on track.
· Paraphrase or restate in your own words.
· Use open-ended questions rather than yes-or-no ones.
Active listening and cross-cultural communication
Listening to others, like many other things, is influenced by culture. In some
cultures, people talk directly to each other, expressing themselves verbally. In
other cultures, people communicate indirectly, conveying messages through a
third party, or through symbols, metaphors, or silence.
When listening cross-culturally, it is invaluable to have a trusted cultural interpreter,
who knows the subtle rules of the host culture and can verbalise them to those
who come from a different culture than yours. This helps us understand not just
the words being spoken but also silences, body language, and tones of voice.
An interpreter can help us communicate in a way that will be understood by local
people.
First impressions
The first impressions people have of us are often based on what we wear and how
we wear it; manners and speech, and character is noticed last of all. Personality
assists us in making a good impression just like good manners and a pleasing
appearance.
Good manners are nothing but courteous and sincere consideration of other
people’s interests and feelings. Dressing appropriately for an occasion reflects
your good manners and makes a positive impression on those around you. Good
manners and appropriate dress are always appreciated.
Transport
Getting around in Malta is very easy and can be done in different ways: bus,
car, ferry, foot, motorbike, bicycle and taxi. Traffic in Malta drives on the left side
as in the UK and the buses are the primary method of public transport for the
Maltese islands. The majority of buses depart from a terminus in Valletta. All the
information related to public transport in Malta can be found on the following link:
http://www.publictransport.com.mt/home?l=1
Starting from July 2015 the fares of public transport will change and a new system
related to a new transport card called ‘Tallinja card’ will be operating.
The “Tallinja Card” is a plastic smartcard which can hold pay as you go, prepaid
credit. The “Tallinja Card” may be used to travel on any one of the Malta Public
Transport buses in both Malta and Gozo.
For more information on the “Tallinja card” please visit: https://www.tallinja.com
6564

CONCLUSION
Since its foundation, AWAS has assisted over 17,000 persons who have sought
asylum in Malta by providing information related to integration. AWAS felt the
need to publish a booklet where one can find answers to his or her queries.
Most questions that asylum seekers ask are about housing, health, education
and employment. For this reason, information sessions were conducted at open
centres and the information and material used during these sessions have been
included in this handbook.
The information sessions and this booklet were co-financed by the European
Union in accordance with the rules of the General Programme Solidarity and
Management of Migration Flows (2007 – 2013), European Refugee Fund (ERF).
66

General Programme Solidarity and Management of Migration Flows 2007-2013
This project is part-financed by the European Union
EuropeanRefugee Fund (ERF)
Co-financing rate: 75% EU Funds; 25% Beneficiary Funds
Sustainable Management of Migration Flows
This Publication has been produced with the assistance of the European
Commission.
The contents are the sole responsibility of AWAS and can in no way be taken
to reflect the views of the European Commission.

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