heks

One of the major challenges facing society in years to come is that of integrating disadvantaged people in society and in working life. HEKS is playing its part in encouraging the social integration of these sections of the population - and therewith in developing social and societal cohesion in Switzerland.

Traditional family ties, social relationships and religious affiliations have depreciated in value as terms of reference and orientation. The transition to flexible employment conditions on the labour market has led to a loss of social security. Many people have lost their jobs and others who are employed earn too little to be able to afford the most basic necessities. Their social network is falling apart, resulting in isolation and illness.

More and more people are excluded on the basis of their social background, their ethnicity, age, gender or religion. There can be additional constraints hindering the integration of people with an immigrant background, such as their lack of the necessary language skills, their lack of awareness of the cultural niceties in Switzerland, and their experiences of discrimination on the labour market.

The cause taken up by HEKS in its projects is for all people in this country to have access to social, cultural, political and economic life.

HEKS is supportive of these people, imparting the necessary skills to enable them to play a part in society. In the broad canvas of social integration HEKS concentrates its projects and programmes on the following areas:

• Integration in the labour market and employment rooted in daily structures

• Language and training courses

• Early learning initiatives for children and the associated parental involvement

• Intercultural and cross-cultural interpretation and communication

• Provision of housing and support with daily living.

The integration projects are based on the resources, skills and abilities of the individuals taking part. The aim is for these people to achieve personal and financial independence having built up their own network of social relationships.