Objectives

Within the framework of the AWH project in Carinthia, action is being taken at several levels to better prepare young adults for the tasks of adult life, to make the transition from accommodation to self-employment more constructive and sustainable and, as a result, to minimise the number of homelessness among young adults. To this end, a wide-ranging cooperation network is being set up, which currently consists of the following areas:

  • Further assistance systems that extend beyond child and youth welfare or beyond the age of 21: If there is a need, i.e. if it is necessary to achieve the goals set out in the aid plan, every young adult cared for by the child and youth welfare service has the opportunity to apply for further care beyond the age of 18 (up to a maximum of 21). In case of professional necessity, these applications will be granted.

  • Preventive contact and counselling centres for adult help: If a continuation is not desired/possible, then the young adult has access to contact points such as the Youth Emergency Sleep Centres (Villach, Klagenfurt) and Streetwork. These child and youth welfare facilities look after clients beyond the age of 18.

  • Support networks from the psychiatric department or from the department of people with disabilities: Existing and well-established support networks from these two fields can also be made available to young adults. Many topics overlap and can therefore be covered well.

  • City of Villach: systems of assistance for young adults supported by policy and administration

The offers of the cooperation partners must be suitable for the Careleaver target group.

On the other hand, strategic measures are attempted in a targeted manner in order to promote a strength-oriented attitude among social pedagogues from the field and in order to sensitise young adults who have grown up in institutions to their position and starting position. In addition, various research projects and scientific work are promoted by establishing contacts with careleavers and accompanying them to interviews, etc. in order to create a better theoretical and scientific basis. A better theoretical understanding can be a supportive working basis in social pedagogical everyday life.