aims to strengthen trauma-informed, embodied and arts-based youth work in multicultural environments, equipping youth workers with practical, safe and ethical methods to support young people affected by trauma, displacement, violence or exclusion, especially when verbal expression is difficult.
• Increase youth workers’ understanding of trauma and its emotional, physical, behavioural and social effects.
• Develop practical skills in embodied and non-verbal methods such as grounding, breath, movement, body awareness, visual arts and creative expression.
• Strengthen participants’ ability to recognise triggers and respond safely to challenging situations.
• Promote culturally sensitive and trauma-informed youth work focused on boundaries, consent, choice and safety.
• Support youth workers’ wellbeing and resilience, including prevention of secondary trauma and burnout.
• Help participants adapt and transfer the methods to their own organisations and local contexts.
• Create and disseminate the WATER digital handbook using practice examples from follow-up activities.
• Strengthen international exchange and cooperation among youth workers and organisations.