In order to meet a demand for accommodation which is not met in the city, the Abej-Lille opened an accommodation centre known as a "social hotel" in 1994, on premises belonging to a company called PARTHENORD. These premises were completely renovated in 1999.
Each of the people provided with accommodation is unique and has his or her own particular needs. The aim of the social hotel is to allow each person to get the most out of the available services and to restore a sense of well-being after his or her time living on the streets: for some of them, this period of accommodation will act as a springboard before a more suitable and lasting solution; for others it will be a chance to settle and rebuild their lives, giving them the time they need.
This centre can accommodate 63 people, mainly single men. Admission is through two ABEJ-Lille day centres, the ABEJ-Solidarités and the Point de Repère, where a very large number of homeless people go during the day looking for an accommodation solution. Out of these 63 places, 20 are "CHRS" (Centre d'Hébergement et de Réinsertion Sociale - Accommodation and Social Reintegration Centre) accredited but all of the residents are eligible for the same services and the same quality of care.
Strong points :
- the accommodation is in individual rooms and each person has his own key, - accommodation with no time limit, - short, flexible house rules, - individualised educational support - a multidisciplinary team - the ability to cater to each person's needs respectfully, regardless of their personal difficulties (living on the very fringes of society, mental problems, physical and mental disability, alcohol dependency or drug addiction).
The reception staff work hard to welcome people in a warm, friendly way, showing respect for each of them. - Accommodation in individual rooms makes people feel safe and offers them guaranteed privacy. - The various activities on offer, along with the social and educational support, foster a climate of trust and help people become more stable and make plans. - Special attention is paid to people living on the very fringes of society.
Since 2006, the Abej has had 10 "short-stay healthcare beds" for people living on the streets who need treatment but do not need to be admitted to hospital or to stay in a convalescent home.
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