086 – L.I.K.E. – Life Investment is the Key to Employment

Approximately 1 in every 6 people in working age has mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety. Because of the current discrimination, only a few of them have a chance to get a job. Project L.I.K.E. addresses the status quo by targeting NEETs with mental health problems (together with their relatives and employers) who are facing difficulties not triggered by the conventional labor and EU programs. The main objective of the project is to ensure integration of those young people by exploring and introducing an innovative methodology – through the establishment of “Hidden Likes” Youth Houses we answer the problems and needs of the target group and thus: we find European solutions for quality employment and increase the number of sustainable jobs. These Youth Houses are safe places for young NEETs where they receive our support, mentorship, counselling and engagement as well as a possibility to perform various activities like animal and art therapy, sport, gardening and others. 3 “Hidden Likes” Youth Houses were opened in Bulgaria, Hungary and Latvia. We managed to reach a wide public of almost 50,000 people. Despite the pandemic situation, 91 NEETs engaged in the program since the opening of the first Youth House, and the needs’ based research looking for best social inclusion solutions covered more than 1,400 beneficiaries. We were also able to form partnerships between different organisations and services to support young people who do not work or study.

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