Freiburg's Addiction Prevention Program Empowers Young People—New Peer Counselors to Be Trained
Freiburg trains young peer counsellors to tackle alcohol risks in nightlife
In May 2026, Freiburg's Office for Social Services will offer free training for peer counselors as part of its PräRIE initiative. The program aims to engage directly with young people and young adults in the city center, raising awareness about responsible alcohol consumption.
The training will take place on Friday, May 22, 2026, and Saturday, May 23, 2026, covering essential topics such as addiction prevention, communication techniques, and de-escalation strategies. Participants will also learn about local support networks.
After completing the program, the newly trained counselors will primarily work in teams on weekend evenings—patrolling the city center and public transit, accompanied by addiction specialists.
The initiative relies on a peer-to-peer approach, where young people engage with their peers on equal footing, discussing risks and sharing experiences. Beyond conversations, they can also connect individuals with professional support services when needed.
Applications for the training are open until Friday, May 15, 2026.
