We aim to strengthen the mental health and well-being of young people in the cities of Helmond, Ghent, and Espoo by integrating a scientifically-based factors model into local youth work services....

We aim to strengthen the mental health and well-being of young people in the cities of Helmond, Ghent, and Espoo by integrating a scientifically-based factors model into local youth work services. It combines scientific studies and local data, helping policymakers and practitioners to prioritize actions and set up effective interventions. The project will identify key factors, collect data, and set up interventions, fostering collaboration between research, policy, and the youth sector.

We will set up effective youth work interventions in each city, using the factors model and its related products (data collection) to achieve this. Trainings and workshops will be organized to support youth workers, focusing on mental health factors and the application of the model. Together with the youth sector, pilot interventions will be carried out. Findings will be shared through workshops, meetings, and reports to promote the model’s practical use and lasting impact.

The primary outcome is the implementation of youth work interventions grounded in scientific insights. A general model highlighting key mental health factors will be available for European cities, while each partner city will have a localized version tailored to its specific youth data. These insights will empower youth workers, city officials, and practitioners to make data-driven decisions and promote evidence-based youth policies and interventions.