On Monday, October 27, 2025, a training on Psychological First Aid (PFA) was held in the conference hall of the Municipality of Inđija. The training was intended for professionals and volunteers working with older persons and other vulnerable groups. It was conducted as part of the ongoing activities of the Red Cross of Serbia aimed at strengthening the capacity of local communities to provide support and deliver psychological first aid.

Participants included representatives of the Red Cross Inđija, the Center for Social Work, civil society organizations, Institute of Mental Health, as well as home caregivers.

During the training, participants learned what psychological first aid is – and what it is not – and became familiar with its main phases: prepare, look, listen, link. Special emphasis was placed on developing communication skills, recognizing individuals who need special attention, and maintaining the mental well-being of helpers through self-care and peer support.

Trainers Nataša Todorović and Dr. Milutin Vračević from the Red Cross of Serbia emphasized that psychological first aid is a universal approach that can be applied not only in crisis situations but also in everyday work with people experiencing stress and loss.

The training concluded with a joint message highlighting the importance of humanity, support, and solidarity in all situations where people face stress and uncertainty.

This training is part of the capacity building of organizations implementing the project “Strengthening Access to Health Care, Participation and Social Equity in the Western Balkans (SHAPE)”, funded by the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection of the Republic of Austria and the Austrian Red Cross.