About project
CATALYST is a European project that supports young people’s mental well being and employability through peer-led career coaching and innovative digital resources.
CATALYST: Peer-Led Career Coaching to Support
Disengaged Young People is a 24-month Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnership in Youth that addresses the growing mental health and employability challenges faced by young people across Europe.
Many young people experience anxiety, social isolation, and reduced career confidence, which can prevent them from successfully transitioning into education, training, or employment. The project responds to these challenges by promoting peer support as an accessible, community-based solution.
PROJECT AIM
To improve the mental wellbeing and employability of disengaged young people by using a peer-led coaching approach supported by digital mental health and career guidance resources.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The project trains young adults aged 25–30 as peer coaches, equipping them with the skills and
tools needed to support younger peers aged 18–25 in overcoming personal, mental health, and career-related barriers.
Through a structured peer coaching training programme, a mental health self-care toolkit for young people, and online training modules for youth workers focusing on mental health, social media, and artificial intelligence, CATALYST aims to improve wellbeing, resilience, and
employability while fostering inclusion and reducing stigma across partner countries.
METHODOLOGY
The project integrates evidence-based practices from positive psychology, youth work, and career guidance with practical, learner-centred tools. Training content and resources are developed collaboratively by the partner organisations and delivered through accessible online modules and toolkits. Youth workers are also supported through targeted online training that strengthens their capacity to recognise early mental health challenges and respond appropriately, particularly in digital and social media contexts.
