40 Years of reception group: A safe harbor for children in crises

40 Years of reception group: A safe harbor for children in crises

The reception group of the Vorarlberg children's village has been an important point of contact for children in acute crisis situations for 40 years now. In recent years, the demand for these protective offers has increased significantly, which is due to the increased loads within families. Georg Thoma, who has been working in various functions in the Kronhalde children's village for many years, explains that a record utilization was recorded both in 2023 and in the current year.

A total of almost 2000 children between the ages of five and 13 have been looked after in the reception group since it was founded in 1984. The increase in overnight stays compared to previous years is particularly striking. 55 children have already been recorded by the end of September, which represents an increase of 35 percent compared to the previous years. This development shows how urgently the need for such help offers.

causes of crises

The reasons that make crisis care necessary are very diverse, according to Thoma. Educational difficulties and the excessive demands of parents come first, followed by health problems and mental illnesses. The increase in domestic violence also influences the number of children who are looking for help. Thoma emphasizes that the number of families who suffer from such serious problems has increased.

Many of the children cared for also bring challenges such as bond disorders and traumatizations. These experiences can be manifested in behavioral problems, ranging from anxiety disorders to depressed behaviors. The emotional and psychological consequences are often strong and require specific approaches in care.

"The children who come to our reception group often have a feeling of inner chaos," explains Thoma. These emotions are not only expressed in sadness, but can also turn into anger and aggressiveness. It is a challenge for the specialist staff to meet this burdened young people.

challenges of care

The high number of children and their different age groups present the team with major challenges. Thoma calls the need to find an adequate care approach from toddlers to young people. This diversity in needs requires a high degree of flexibility and professionalism from employees.

The specialists must be trained intensively in order to meet the complex requirements. The Vorarlberg children's village relies on continuous training, especially in the area of trauma pedagogy in order to give the employees necessary tools.

Another aspect that must be discussed is the transport of the children to their schools or kindergartens. Thoma emphasizes that it could make sense to continue to integrate the childcare children into their usual facilities. However, this means additional logistical challenges that would have to be solved by a permanent driving service or an extended infrastructure.

The Vorarlberg children's village is aiming for an expansion of the offer in order to be able to help even more children and families in crisis situations. "Our basic attitude is: Yes, we are there for you!" Said Thoma. The focus is always on offering a safe space and comprehensive support, while the children come through their difficult times.

For more information about the reception group of the Vorarlberg children's village, interested parties can visit the website www.vorarlberger-kinderdorf