From 1 to 8 September 2025, in Falduff, near Louisburgh and Westport, County Mayo, Ireland, the international training course “Youth Workers Saving Lives” took place, funded by the Erasmus+ Programme 2021–2027.

Objectives and Main Focus

The project aimed to train youth workers, trainers, and volunteers to respond effectively to emergency medical situations and to apply basic first aid techniques. Its main objectives included:

• building confidence and practical skills for responding to incidents;
• minimizing the impact of injuries;
• creating a safer environment in youth work;
• strengthening trust between organizations, parents, and communities.

Programme Highlights

The training combined theoretical input with hands-on practical sessions. Key topics and activities included:

• CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), use of AED, response to bleeding, choking, concussions, fainting, diabetes, and other conditions;
• assessment and prevention of risks in youth work;
• understanding emotional reactions during incidents and practicing real-case simulations;
• first aid for unconscious persons, injuries, fractures, dislocations, and dressings;
• introduction to the EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work 2021–2027;
• work on Youthpass, video evaluation, and interactive tools such as Menti.com and Dixit.

A special highlight of the programme was the intercultural evening, where participants presented the traditions, food, music, and culture of their countries.

Each day concluded with a reflection group, allowing participants to share impressions, challenges, and lessons learned.

International Participation

The training brought together participants from five European countries:

• Love and Care for People (Ireland)
• ONDE (Italy)
• Association Beyond (Romania)
• Association FOR YOU (Bulgaria)
• Level Up (Poland)

Results and Impact

Participants successfully gained practical first aid knowledge and received certificates from PHECC (Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council). The project strengthened their abilities to work under pressure, communicate effectively, and take responsibility in youth work settings.

As a result of the training, youth workers are now better prepared to ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people in their organisations. Each participant committed to sharing the knowledge gained through dissemination activities and presentations within their local organisations and communities.

About the Organiser

The project was organised by the Irish youth charity Love and Care for People (LCP) – a youth-led non-profit established in 2013, actively promoting the integration of ethnic minorities, refugees, and migrants in Ireland. LCP is a full member of the Irish Network Against Racism and the National Youth Council of Ireland, with extensive experience in international cooperation under KA1, KA2, VET, and ESC programmes.

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