UWTSD Youth Work Student Supports Ukrainian Young People Through Innovative Project
Jimmy Wilson, a BA Young People, Communities and Youth Work student at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), has been making a significant impact in Pembrokeshire through his leadership of a youth work programme supporting Ukrainian young people displaced by the war.
Since August 2023, Jimmy has coordinated a youth-led initiative designed to help Ukrainian young people aged 16–25 settle into life in West Wales. Many of the participants arrived in the UK after experiencing trauma, loss, and disconnection from family and community. Jimmy’s project has provided them with emotional support, friendship, and opportunities to thrive.
Jimmy began the project by conducting outreach, youth work and home visits, allowing him to build trust with both young people and their families. He said:
“This initial phase was essential in developing an understanding of their individual circumstances, family dynamics, and the specific barriers they were facing. Social isolation, lack of integration opportunities, language barriers, and mental health challenges were consistently highlighted as major concerns.”
Drawing on the values and principles of youth work, voluntary participation, respect for the individual, and cultural awareness, Jimmy adopted a trauma-informed approach that ensured all activities were sensitive, inclusive, and supportive.
Guided by the needs identified through outreach, Jimmy designed a structured programme aimed at reducing isolation, fostering peer connections, and enhancing emotional well-being.
Working in collaboration with the Pembrokeshire Migration Team, Pembrokeshire MIND, and a Ukrainian Youth Wellbeing Coordinator, the project provided a culturally sensitive network of support for young people and their families. Jimmy adds that:
“The collaboration helped ensure continuity and culturally appropriate support.”
Activities included outdoor adventures, sports, and cultural experiences such as attending international rugby matches, go-karting, and water sports. A highlight was a five-day residential course in Snowdonia, where participants built confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships.
As the group gained confidence, Jimmy introduced regular feedback sessions, allowing young people to co-design future activities. Their ideas led to community and cultural exchange events, including a traditional Ukrainian dinner hosted for local young people and Pembrokeshire County Council staff, promoting intercultural understanding and pride in identity.
The project also expanded to provide one-to-one support for those moving into further education, training, and employment, ensuring participants were supported in shaping their futures.
The WE Explore Project has since extended to support unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC), many of whom share similar experiences of displacement and trauma.
Jimmy attributes much of the project’s success to his academic journey at UWTSD.
“My academic studies at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), where I am currently progressing through Level 6 of the BA (Hons) Young People, Communities and Youth Work degree, have been instrumental in ensuring the long-term success of the project. Through the course, I have deepened my understanding of youth work theory, trauma-informed approaches, and reflective practice.
“I now use reflective practice regularly to evaluate and adapt my interventions.”
Angharad Lewis, UWTSD’s Programme Manager, said:
“The Youth Work programme team couldn’t be prouder of Jimmy and the inspiring leadership he has brought to this project as part of his placement. As a Flexi Part-time student, Jimmy attends Twilight lectures each week, alternating between online and on campus, which allows him to fit his study around his employment commitments while working towards his Youth Work professional qualification. His dedication to supporting young people resettled from Ukraine exemplifies the compassion, commitment, and values at the heart of youth work. Witnessing the remarkable difference Jimmy is making in Pembrokeshire reflects the very best of our University’s community spirit, and we’re delighted to celebrate the positive impact he continues to have every day.”
As he continues his degree and develops the WE Explore Project into 2026, Jimmy remains committed to creating spaces where all young people, regardless of their background or journey, can feel valued, connected, and supported.
“As I continue to support Ukrainian young people and UASC into 2025/26, I remain committed to delivering responsive youth work that recognises the strength and potential of every young person, even in the face of enormous challenges.”
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476