The Department of Deux-Sèvres is opening a new intergenerational residence welcoming unaccompanied minors in the south of Deux-Sèvres.
After the opening of the first intergenerational residence in Sciecq, in January 2024, the Department duplicated this intergenerational reception system.
Since the beginning of September, 8 young unaccompanied minors (UMAs) aged 15 to 17 have come to settle in this structure managed by the Melioris association in Couture-d'Argenson. They joined the 16 elderly people who reside there.
Read also: A new type of intergenerational autonomy residence near Niort
Like the Sciecquois example, the Marpa de Couture-d'Argenson has housing in which residents can live independently and common spaces facilitating collective activities and sharing times. “This allows the organization of a convivial life while respecting everyone’s privacy,” explained Béatrice Largeau, vice-president in charge of solidarity, social cohesion and child protection, during the presentation of this new feature.
The links are forged little by little
Since the arrival of young people, links have been formed little by little with older people, “with respect and tolerance, a sign of successful integration. » A success supported by “the immediate support of the residence professionals for the project”indicated Marc Riouallon, assistant director of the establishment.
The team includes a coordinator and six care workers as well as a specialized educator, recruited by the association, who provides educational and social support for young people and relays to the Department's youth support mission.
What advantages?
This innovative model aims to respond to very strong challenges of territorial and social cohesion. First of all, it makes it possible to maintain reception structures for the elderly in rural areas by ensuring a maximum occupancy rate and therefore economic viability. “It is a concrete response to maintaining services in rural areas and to the challenge of aging in Deux-Sèvres,” assures the Department.
It also makes it possible to offer young people entrusted to the Department a real opportunity for integration and development thanks to intensive support from professionals from associations and the community and dignified and comfortable reception conditions.
Finally, it provides all residents, young and old, with the opportunity to share a daily life in which everyone has a role and a recognized place.
Cover photo caption: Elected officials from the Department, the mayor of the town and those responsible for Melioris with young unaccompanied minors at the Marpa de Couture-d'Argenson. Photo CD79.
