Fight against homelessness: Support for those affected starts now!

Fight against homelessness: Support for those affected starts now!

In the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district in Berlin, there is a new and important project in the starting blocks that aim to offer targeted support for homeless and drug-consuming people. District Councilor Carolina Böhm and the district councilor Urban Aykal have presented this initiative, which begins in October 2024

The situation in recent years has triggered concern with both the authorities and the population. Especially along the heavily frequented castle road and at train stations, scenes have been created in which homeless and addicted people often stay in public spaces. "We are watching the situation of homeless people in public space with growing concern," said Böhm. The need for a structured approach is undisputed to offer help those affected and, on the other hand, reduce tensions with residents and the business world.

field analysis for precise solutions

The core of the project will be a comprehensive field analysis , which should give a deep insight into the conditions on site. This analysis includes several priorities:

• Investigation of the age structure, gender distribution and addiction situation of the data subjects
• Analysis of the conflict situations in relevant social areas
• determination of the most urgent concerns of people in public space
• inventory of existing help offers in the district and beyond
• Development of specific action strategies to improve the situation

The social organization Gangway will take on a central role here by regularly visiting the meeting points of the people affected. The aim is to build trust and offer individual help. Another component of the project is to strengthen community work to promote a respectful exchange between residents and the users of public space.

The initiative is not only reactive, but also pursues preventive goals. "We would like to intensify the prevention of homelessness and the development of addiction problems and offer help at an early stage," continued Böhm. This will require close cooperation with existing social institutions and the youth street work team. Another important aspect is the exchange with the responsible offices and regulatory authorities, which is promoted by a regular round table.