First, we aimed to improve the knowledge and skills of youth workers, educators, and others who work closely with young people, particularly in recognizing and addressing issues related to drug, narcotic, and psychotropic substance use. Our goal was to equip them with innovative tools and methods to prevent addiction, support young people at risk, and guide those already struggling towards professional help. We also wanted to raise awareness about the real dangers and consequences of drug use among young people and provide practical ways to communicate with youth effectively and sensitively. Through interactive workshops, instructive videos, improvised role-play scenes, and a comprehensive manual, we sought to create engaging educational resources that make it easier for adults to connect with and support young people. Ultimately, our goal was to strengthen the overall quality and innovation in youth work, promote the mental and physical well-being of young people, and contribute to the inclusion and support of vulnerable youth groups who might otherwise be at risk of addiction and social exclusion.
We applied for this project because we identified a significant and urgent need to support youth workers and educators in addressing drug use among young people. Drug addiction, particularly among 15 to 25-year-olds, is a growing problem across our countries, leading to serious physical, mental, and social consequences for youth. Studies and data have shown high rates of drug experimentation and addiction within this age group, exacerbated by factors like lack of emotional support, socio-economic crises, and insufficient educational resources on addiction prevention. Our project, "Safe and Drug Free", responds directly to these needs. We aim to equip youth workers, educators, and others working with young people with innovative tools, up-to-date knowledge, and practical skills to recognize early signs of drug use, engage effectively with at-risk youth, and guide them towards appropriate support. By focusing on prevention, communication skills, and non-formal, interactive education methods (like virtual escape rooms, Kahoot quizzes, and improv workshops), we seek to strengthen the quality of youth work, promote the inclusion of vulnerable young people, and enhance their physical and mental well-being.