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Description
The project aims to address a problem at national level, namely the weak representation and participatory involvement and limited access to social integration facilities for chronically ill young people in Romania. The National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2027 aims to shift from a medical model of disability to a social model based on human rights. Monitoring systems and the representation of these rights, but also participatory involvement, are some of the shortcomings encountered at national level.
The project proposes a multilateral approach, complementary to the mentioned National Strategy at both national and European level through the development of an integrated, sustainable, participatory and replicable model of self-presentation for young people, aged 14-35, suffering from chronic diseases. The project will focus on
the creation of communities that will facilitate an open dialog addressing common problems faced by chronic youth; promoting their visibility through a social media campaign; the association of young adolescents with positive resilience models through a peer-to-peer counselling program; organising trainings for teachers focused on promoting non-discriminatory practices in schools; providing tools for civic involvement in local communities.
Regarding the organizational development, within the project, a multi-stakeholder conference will take place to bring in the same place the main actors advocating for chronically ill persons in order to represent the common interests at national level. Together with the strategic partners, PONT Group and Spektrum, which offer expertise in civic involvement of young people, respectively training through non-formal means, the project aims to facilitate a systemic change in the lives of 200 young people (50% from underserved areas), by creating a positive precedent that could be replicated in other insufficiently served communities.
Summary of project results
The project addressed the challenges faced by young people with chronic illnesses (aged 14-35) such as social exclusion and difficulties in disease management, through activities designed to support the development of self-advocacy skills, resilience, and proactive attitudes.
Key activities included peer-to-peer counseling for 60 beneficiaries, therapeutic camps for 100 beneficiaries, and a participatory digital platform aimed at improving self-confidence and empowering participants to claim their rights. Participants gained skills to overcome daily challenges and better integrate into their communities. Additionally, other several project activities provided training in self-advocacy techniques and social innovation, helping participants in developing community initiatives using the design thinking methodology. Youth learned to identify issues in their communities and create solutions, promoting self-representation and active engagement. The impact was visible both at individual and at the community level, improving the perceptions of young people with chronic illnesses. Awareness activities involving over 260 beneficiaries significantly reduced stigma and created a more inclusive environment. Promoting life stories on social media, conducting awareness courses for teachers, and hosting a multi-stakeholder conference contributed to changing attitudes within communities.
Overall, the project had a significant impact on young people with chronic illnesses, enhancing their self-confidence, self-advocacy skills, and disease management. Beneficiaries gained essential skills to protect their rights and contribute actively in changing their communities. The project also positively influenced teachers and the broader community, promoting a more inclusive educational and social environment, reaching over 800 individuals, including teachers, umbrella NGOs, and public institutions.