Symbios - shared housing

Symbios provides shared housing for young adults leaving children's homes and alternative forms of family care with university students. It responds to the lack of systemic care for this target group in the Czech Republic and at the same time is based on the real needs of the target group, which are independent housing, a close relationship, sufficient psychological support, sufficient motivation for self-realization, and support in finding work. In short, Symbios is a space where they can touch real life, a space for learning from own mistakes and taking responsibility for their own lifes.

Young adults leaving institutional care face difficulties finding housing, their first job, and building new relationships. The Czech Republic does not have a sufficient support system to assist young adults leaving institutional care. Without adequate resources or supportive relationships, these young adults are vulnerable to social exclusion and homelessness.

Symbios - shared housing (“Symbios - sdílené bydlení”) offers these young adults shared apartments with university students and support. Young adults leaving institutional care can live in a safe environment in the apartment for 4 years. They can establish new relationships, build new skills and perspectives from their peers and mentors.

The programme connects students and young adults who recently left institutional care. In their shared apartments, the young adults take their first steps in independent living, build relationships, learn to resolve conflicts, find and keep their first job. The connection between the students and young adults also builds tolerance.

After the programme, young people have a better understanding of themselves, establish work habits and greater social capital. They will have the skills to manage new situations and are resilient to vulnerabilities, such as addiction and crime.

The programme offers a comprehensive solution to support young adults leaving institutional care. In the future, we would like to expand the programme to other university cities in the Czech Republic.