The project addresses the problem of inadequate support for people with intellectual disabilities in the County of Węgorzewo. Approximately 4,500 adults with intellectual disabilities are diagnosed annually in the Warminsko-Mazurskie voivodeship. These people very often live with their parents or guardians and after the death of their parents are usually placed in institutions, which accommodate from several dozen to several hundred people and where they can count on only basic care. The existing base in the voivodeship is about 800 day care places and about 4 000 day care places. In addition, there are no social integration clubs in Węgorzewo County – the closest one is in Kętrzyn; facilities providing 24-hour care for people with disabilities are located in Reszel – 60 km from Węgorzewo, and the closest sheltered housing is in Olecko and is only for people from that county.

As part of the project, an independent training apartment, a year-round exercise room and a place for integration and outdoor sports events were created. Two people with intellectual disabilities lived in the flat. Various workshops and meetings were held at the Project Promoter’s premises, including exercise classes, wickerwork, art classes, etc. The Project Promoter’s clients also participated in outreach, cultural and sporting events. The Project Promoter reached out to local authorities, schools, village councils and farmers’ groups with information about the problems of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Adults with intellectual disabilities were the first to benefit from the project. They have increased their self-confidence, coping skills and awareness of the resources they have in different life situations. The local community also broadened its knowledge of the lives and problems of people with intellectual disabilities. It has also been possible to promote the idea of assisted housing locally.