Ventilen
About this good practice
Ventilen is a Danish NGO that addresses youth loneliness through locally anchored, volunteer-led interventions for young people aged 15–25. The core of the practice is weekly group-based activities in over 20 municipalities, facilitated by trained young volunteers. These sessions combine informal social interaction with structured support to promote participants’ self-worth, social skills, and sense of belonging.
Ventilen’s model is grounded in a capacity-building approach that strengthens both participants and volunteers. It is guided by four core principles: continuity (regular, predictable meetings), community (inclusive, safe group environments), co-determination (participants help shape activities), and capacity building (developing transferable social and personal skills through active participation).
Beyond its group-based support, Ventilen works structurally to reduce stigma and raise awareness. Through the Ventilen Fortæller programme, Ventilen delivers presentations and workshops combining professional insights and lived experience to foster understanding of loneliness. In Netwerk, Ventilen collaborates with upper secondary and vocational schools to build inclusive class cultures and strengthen social cohesion through materials, workshops, and staff guidance for prevention and early intervention.
Key stakeholders include young people at risk of loneliness, volunteers, educators, school leaders, municipalities, and professionals working with youth across sectors.
Resources needed
Annual budget of DKK 8.05 m. (2024), including DKK 2.4 m. in public funding, DKK 1.06 in lottery funds, DKK 1.4 m. from sales of knowledge and services, and DKK 2.75 m. from private foundations. About 300 volunteers and 10 staff responsible for coordination, training, outreach, and evaluation.
Evidence of success
Evaluation data from 2024 show that 81% of participants report reduced loneliness, 76% improved self-esteem, and 74% feel better equipped to navigate social situations. The practice reaches over 1,000 young people annually through 23 local groups, with most attending regularly over several months, indicating sustained engagement and perceived value.
Potential for learning or transfer
Ventilen’s model offers a scalable approach to addressing youth loneliness through volunteer-led, community-based interventions. Key success factors include structured volunteer training, regular group activities fostering social inclusion, and collaboration with local stakeholders. The model’s adaptability allows implementation in diverse settings, provided there is access to committed volunteers and support for coordination and training. Potential challenges in transfer may involve cultural differences in volunteer engagement and varying levels of institutional support. The model is low-threshold, cost-efficient, and does not require referral, making it suitable for early intervention. Its combination of local anchoring and national coordination offers a balance between flexibility and quality assurance that may inspire similar efforts elsewhere.
