Bethlehem, Palestine

A Friendship Agreement was signed with Bethlehem in 1992. Despite the ongoing political situation there have been an increasing number of cultural, educational and artistic projects between Glasgow and Bethlehem in recent years.

Glasgow Psychological Service  & Bethlehem Guidance and Training Centre (BGTC)

Glasgow Psychological Service has partnered with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Specialist Children's Services and two universities, Glasgow and Dundee, to support workforce development in Palestine. 

This project will strengthen educational links between professionals involved in the delivery of psychological services and mental health services for vulnerable children and families in Bethlehem and Glasgow. Glasgow City Council and the International office of the Lord Provost of Glasgow have committed financially and professionally to supporting health and wellbeing initiatives linking both cities.

In this context, there have been reciprocal visits to Glasgow and Bethlehem and ongoing links.  The purpose of these links has been to co-construct a curriculum to support the professional development of staff working with children, young people and families in Palestine.  The overall aim is to improve outcomes for Palestinian infants, children, and young people in the domains of health, education, wellbeing, self-determination, and social functioning.

Bethlehem University & Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board

For 5 years the partnership between both organisations has looked at developing a cancer nurse education link between Glasgow and Bethlehem. The official launch of the nursing diploma was launched in Bethlehem in 2017. Developments have included teaching visits of Greater Glasgow & Clyde clinicians to Bethlehem University and the clinical placement of Palestinian cancer nurses to Glasgow cancer hospitals

Cultural Programme

There are a number of cultural partnership through the arts and music, including musicians participating in Bethlehem's Bet Live Music Festival.

The Lajee centre came to Glasgow as part of their music and dance tour. The group comprises of young people based in Aida Refugee camp. Their programme included School visits and workshops  and Glasgow performances in various venues.