On 26-28 September 2026, the Donetsk Regional Youth Centre held a specialized training "Trauma-Informed Youth Work" within the framework of the state programme "Youth Worker".
The event brought together youth workers working with youth in Donetsk, Vinnytsia and other cities of Ukraine. Participants deepened their professional knowledge and mastered approaches to working with young people in conditions of prolonged exposure to stress and traumatic events.
During the training, they considered the issues of traumatic stress, youth rights, the principle of "do no harm", creating a safe space, self-regulation, psychological first aid and coping strategies. They also talked about the practical application of a trauma-informed approach, the development of psychological assistance networks in communities and the involvement of young people in further initiatives.
Considerable attention was paid to practice. Participants analyzed real cases, exchanged professional experience, got acquainted with Ukrainian and international practices, and developed tools for further work.
The training contributed to the professional development of employees, strengthening their ability to create a safe and supportive environment for young people, taking into account their experience and needs.
The Youth Worker Programme is implemented by the All-Ukrainian Youth Centre and the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine in co-operation with the United Nations Development Programme in Ukraine.
The training was organised by the Municipal Institution "Donetsk Regional Youth Centre" together with the Department of Family, Youth and Mass Events of National-Patriotic Education of the Donetsk Regional State Administration and with the friendly assistance of the Vinnytsia Regional Youth Centre "Kvadrat".
Participants and participants also received copies of the Council of Europe manuals "Trauma-Informed Youth Work" and posters on resilience and recovery.
More information on the Council of Europe's activities in the youth sector in Ukraine, including news, youth resources and open calls for proposals, can be found here.
