Aim. The article presents the results of research on the cooperation of institutions and organization of protective activities carried out in disadvantaged environments. The presented research results are part of a research project on the prevention of risky behaviours of young people, analysed from the perspective of the experiences of institutions and organizations operating in socially disadvantaged environments. Methods. The results were based on qualitative research carried out in Silesian districts in three cities (Katowice, Ruda Śląska, and Rybnik). The research used: individual interviews, focus group interviews, document analysis and observation. Results. The conducted research shows that the cooperation between organizations and institutions of protective activity in socially disadvantaged areas is not perfect, which reduces its effectiveness. Conclusion. The need for networking, inter-institutional cooperation, building a support network, but also the development of environmental forms of protective activity in socially disadvantaged areas is very high. The effectiveness of local support networks depends on the quality of cooperation, and this requires attention when building good inter-institutional relations.