Volunteer requirements and training for youth work in Germany

In Germany, volunteer organizations such as sports clubs and religious communities often require a certificate of good conduct to protect children and adolescents. Under the Federal Child Protection Act (§ 72a SGB VIII), recognized youth welfare providers are obligated to review extended certificates of good conduct for individuals supervising or educating minors. Individuals with relevant criminal records are prohibited from these specific volunteer roles.

Complementing these regulatory requirements, training programs are available to qualify young volunteers. In Berlin, the bwgt e. V. organization is offering free training for youth leaders aged 16 to 25. Participants can earn the JuLeiCa (Jugendleiter*innen-Card), a nationally recognized qualification and identification card for volunteer youth workers. The training covers topics such as communication, anti-discrimination, group psychology, and legal fundamentals.