The unique project, inspired by similar projects in Germany and Denmark, started at the Plantation in Helsingborg in 2014. Then with 12 women, today there are about 100 diplomatic district mothers.

Her life changed

The women have been educated about Swedish society, with the aim of spreading their knowledge further and increasing the participation of new arrivals in society.

- I sat at home for eight years when I came to Sweden, says Dailam Al-Naji. But since I started out as a district, I have come to know people, I have gained a lot of knowledge and experience about society.

- Today I can tell new arrivals that I know what you are going through, I know you are sorry, but it will be better. And we are here for you.

The district mothers work completely voluntarily and are available in various meeting rooms at, among others, Planning, Fredriksdal, Närlunda and Drottninghög. For example, they help fill out forms, explain school assignments and apply for housing.

"When we call authorities and declare that we work as district mothers, we usually do not have to wait very long, we get to talk to the right officer quickly," says Rawaa Jurwa.

Permanent part of the city's work

The project - which was financed with both EU funds and municipal money - will be completed on the last of February. Subsequently, the district mothers will be implemented in the city's integration work.

- These are driven women. It knows what other new arrivals are going through and they facilitate integration in Helsingborg, ”says newly retired pensioner Kerstin Stöckl.

She has worked with integration issues in the City of Helsingborg for over 25 years.

- I hear many district moms say that this is a very important part of their lives - and for me too. It is wonderful to see these women's drive and energy to contribute to a better society.

On Monday, district mothers in Helsingborg met from Norway, Denmark and Sweden during a conference to share knowledge and experience with each other.