First responders, including firefighters, police officers, prison workers, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians, along with medical workers such as emergency nurses and physicians, are critical to public safety and healthcare systems. 

Their roles often involve exposure to traumatic events, such as accidents, violence, and natural disasters, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout. 

Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment, is recognised by the World Health Organization as an occupational phenomenon resulting from chronic workplace stress. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted these challenges, with increased demands on these professionals.

The goal is to create a structured programme where first responders and medical workers can engage in the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage as a primary method to manage PTSD and burnout. 

This initiative will leverage the pilgrimage's benefits, such as physical exertion, immersion in nature, communal support, and opportunities for personal reflection, to foster resilience and improve mental well-being, without relying on medication or traditional psychotherapy.