Disability Meeting Points

The Hybrid Training for Youth Workers and Educators was the second core activity of the Disability Meeting Points project, designed to build the capacity, confidence, and competence of professionals working with young people of all abilities. By combining digital learning with face-to-face experiential practice, the training ensured broad access while allowing for deep, hands-on engagement.

Objectives

To increase youth workers’ awareness and understanding of disability inclusion in youth work
To equip professionals with adaptable non-formal education tools and accessible facilitation strategies
To create a transnational network of inclusive youth practitioners
To ensure that inclusive practices are applied consistently across partner organizations

Training Structure

1. Online Phase

- A series of interactive webinars and self-paced learning modules
- Topics included:
  - Understanding different types of disabilities
  - Legal and human rights frameworks (e.g., UN CRPD, Erasmus+ Inclusion Strategy)
  - Principles of Universal Design and accessibility in youth work
  - Digital inclusion and accessible communication tools

2. Face-to-Face Phase

- A 6-day intensive training session hosted in Kemer, Antalya, Türkiye on 19.08.2024 - 26.08.2024
- Methods used: simulations, role-plays, group discussions, inclusive games, and participatory planning
- Accessibility audits of youth settings and mock session planning
- Collaborative development of inclusive activity scenarios

Key Learning Tools and Approaches

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Non-formal education methodologies
Peer mentoring and co-creation techniques
Case studies and problem-solving exercises
Use of assistive and accessible digital tools

Outcomes

Trained 30 youth workers and educators coming from Germany, Türkiye, North Macedonia
Increased awareness and practical skills in inclusive facilitation
Creation of inclusive activity plans and educational content
Strengthened intercultural collaboration among professionals across Europe
Contributions to the DisAbility Playbook and dissemination events

Schedule of the Training

Day 1: Team-building Activities, and Catching Up with the Playbook.

DAY 2: Practical Workshops Focus on Increasing the Competencies of the Participants to Work with on the Topics of Social Inclusion including Sessions focused on Preventing Burnout.

DAY 3: Open Space Day: Participants Run Workshops & Official Visit

DAY 4: Playbook Day 1: Working on Potential Activities Included in Playbook.

DAY 5: Playbook Day 2: Testing of the Playbook.

DAY 6: Presenting the Plans for Local Workshops.