ACCMIN - Accomodating minds

The project took place from 31st December 2021 to 31st December 2023. It was funded through the European Union program Rights, Equality, and Citizenship. The project was implemented by the organization Romodrom o.p.s. together with the partner organization Slovo 21.

Project activities were divided into several work packages aimed at mitigating discrimination and promoting equal opportunities in the housing market for individuals living in social exclusion or at risk of it. In addition to direct work with project participants, the project focused on:

• the issue of discrimination in access to housing
• multiple discrimination (Roma youth, women, children, etc.)
• combating anti-Gypsyism through fighting stereotypes, distrust, and raising awareness among the general public
• supporting inclusive public services
• collaboration with the private sector in creating solutions for access to quality and affordable housing
• supporting the capacity building of Roma and pro-Roma civil society operating in the above-mentioned areas.

The project was implemented through a combination of activities focused on capacity building for clients (guarantee system through certification and training), raising awareness and attitudes with key stakeholders, and watchdog activities. During the project, an information campaign was launched to reach and inform about inequalities in access to housing for 20,000 people, and 500 people were trained on the topic of discrimination.

Who was the project intended for?

• individuals living in inadequate or insecure housing
• professionals - social workers, officials, real estate agents, property owners
• general public

What was offered:

• support for 120 project participants who have an acute need for housing,
• creation of an individual housing plan,
• gradual work on strengthening housing competencies - household budget management, practicing communication with landlords, orientation in the real estate market, overall support for the project beneficiary,
• certificate of a good tenant, which can help in obtaining suitable housing,
• selection of the most suitable apartment from the portfolio together with the participant (financially affordable, in the location where the participant wants to live, meeting the participant's requirements in other criteria),
• followed by the phase of contract signing and preparation for moving - agreement on who will be responsible for utilities, introduction to the house rules, familiarization with customs in the building; planning individual steps of moving, agreement on additional apartment furnishings,
• support after moving - regular visits to the participant in the apartment - monitoring rent and utility payments, resolving any issues with the participant, landlord, or neighbors, working on the family budget, minimizing and preventing risks associated with housing loss,
• working on other areas of the participant's life - community involvement, addressing loneliness, family relationships, debts, motivation for work activities, if the participant's condition allows.

Principles of provision:

• the project is provided to beneficiaries for FREE,
• support for independent resolution of their needs,
• discreet and individual approach,
• respect for the user's free will,
• housing is a human right,
• possibility of choice and control by the project participant,
• active involvement of the participant without coercion,
• individual planning according to the participant's needs,
• flexible support for as long as needed.