The GEM – Mutual Support Group – is an associative prevention structure welcoming people whose situations of similar disabilities (psychological or brain injuries) place them in a fragile situation. Its objectives are the creation of a social bond and the fight against isolation and inclusion in the life of the city. The structure is financed by the regional health agency of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and is under the supervision of the work of Emmanuelle who has already set up the GEMs of Rochefort and that of Surgères in 2022.
“And it is precisely because the structure is now two years old that it must become independent. It’s in our specifications,” explains Stéphanie Couette, the representative of Emmanuelle’s work, while remaining a satellite of the original association.
So, on Thursday, November 21, the constitutive assembly of the “GEM du Parc” took place, so named by the members, who elected their office members, and chose a collegial direction for their association. This is sponsored by Emmanuelle's work and the Center for Animation and Citizenship (CAC). Frédérique Ragot, elected in charge of Culture, represented the municipality, “because the GEM has a vocation for leisure and culture”.
Bertrand Noël and Stéphanie Leclercq are the salaried facilitators of the Surgerian structure. They set up the activities offered by all members, varied outings, cinema, theater, bowling, karaoke day at Futuroscope for example, and regular theater or pastry workshop meetings, a whole diversity where everyone is a source of suggestions. “I never get bored, and I discover lots of things,” emphasizes Philippe, one of the members.
“It’s a place of kindness, and which gives another perspective on people who have psychological vulnerabilities,” adds Frédérique. The reception capacity makes it possible to receive new members.
GEM, 21 bis place du Général Leclerc, in Surgères. Such. 09 82 53 33 69. Email: [email protected]
