From 7th to the 10th of November, partners from Malta, Slovakia, Serbia, and the Netherlands met in Bratislava for the Advanced Planning Visit (APV) for the Institute’s first Erasmus+ project, the Key Action 2 initiative, “Safe and Sound: Developing a Peer-Led Safeguarding Education Model for Teenagers Across Europe,” co-funded by the European Union.

Coordinated by the Don Bosco Foundation and hosted by Domka, the APV focused on planning activities that will strengthen the skills and support systems of youth workers. Discussions emphasized safeguarding strategies, peer-led approaches, and practical tools to help youth workers create safer, nurturing environments for children and teenagers.

The project will continue with focus groups on 4th December and a training course in Malta from 23–28 February 2026, where participants will test educational activities and share knowledge to enhance safeguarding practices across communities.

By developing practical safeguarding skills, peer-led approaches, and supportive networks, the project aims to provide youth workers with the tools to protect, guide, and empower young people, ensuring that youth development is safe, inclusive, and nurturing.