Announced by Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, in his September 2016 State of the Union speech, the European Commission launched, on 7 December 2016 – International Volunteer Day, the European Solidarity Corps. Aiming to allow young people (between the ages of 18 and 30) to sign up for volunteering or a traineeship, apprenticeship or job, lasting from 2 to 12 months, this initiative will provide valuable skills and experience at the start of these young people’s careers. Participants will be able to sign up for activities addressing issues such as: education; health; social integration; assistance in the provision of food; shelter construction; reception, support and integration of migrants and refugees; environmental protection; and prevention of natural disasters (excluding immediate response). The objective is to get 100,000 young people signed up to the Corps by 2020. This great experience will give young men and women the opportunity to grow as people and develop their skills, and to serve those most vulnerable in the EU.
The EFN sees this as a very good opportunity for our young nurses. With the current challenges that the EU is facing as unemployment among the young people, having the right professional, with the right skills, at the right place, doing the right things, is crucial. Furthermore, by using their expertise and skills to meet the health needs and deliver good care, nurses can make a real impact for heath and the patients EU-wide.
To register to access opportunities as soon as they will be available, click here.