SOS CENTERS – The importance of youth participation in a child and youth violence prevention project

Abstract

This article shares the implementation experience of the European project SOS Centers, with a focus on the Portuguese context. Using a qualitative and participatory approach, methods such as questionnaires, observation, and document analysis were employed. The study details how young people participated in creating and coordinating SOS Centers in school settings as a strategy to prevent violence against children and youth. The intervention was carried out in two public schools, with active engagement from students and staff. The findings emphasize the importance of peer-led interventions, increased community awareness, and the development of collaborative practices within the school environment.