Sport has the power to heal, rebuild, and connect. On the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (30 July), the RECOVER project highlights how physical activity can support the recovery and social reintegration of people who have survived human trafficking.
The RECOVER project brings together organisations from Greece, Portugal, Italy, Spain, Cyprus, and Lithuania that work in victim support, sport, and community inclusion. The project aims to unlock the full potential of sport as a tool for empowerment, trauma recovery, and social connection.
To make this possible, we are developing a set of hands-on tools and resources for professionals working with survivors:
- Capacity building programme for sports coaches, trainers, and support professionals
A training curriculum focused on how to use sport to assist trafficking survivors, covering key topics such as:- The healing and integrative power of sport
- Understanding the different needs of trafficking survivors
- Creating safe and inclusive environments
- Coaching strategies that foster trust and participation
- E-guide for supporting survivors through sport
A practical guide with strategies for integrating sport into recovery and reintegration programmes. It also supports participants of the training programme, offering gamified tools to help put what they learn into practice. - Awareness-raising toolkit
A resource to promote understanding of the added value of sport in helping survivors move forward, aimed at professionals in both the social and sports sectors.
Currently, we are finalising a Common Analysis Report, based on extensive field research conducted in all six countries. This includes interviews and focus groups with around 150 experts, including psychologists, social workers, legal professionals, educators, and sports coaches, who shared their insights on working with survivors.
The report will be published on the project’s website by the end of August and it will help guide the creation of the final tools and training activities.
Visit www.recover-project.eu
to learn more and follow the project’s next steps!