Expanded integration and housing solutions in Hamburg: New developments at the refugee accommodation An der Twiete
The district Bergedorf in Hamburg is preparing to take in a larger number of refugees. The former special needs school site An der Twiete is to be converted into a permanent Residential accommodation which will be able to accommodate around 350 people in the future. This decision is being actively promoted by the competent authorities and is in line with the urgent needs of the current crisis.
Since October 2022, the property has been serving as a refuge for war refugees, mainly from Ukraine. According to the social welfare office, 107 people are currently housed there. However, the need for accommodation is considerably greater, which is why the site is now to be expanded. A public information evening is scheduled for Wednesday, July 17, at 6 p.m. in the district school at Binnenfeldredder 7. Project details will be presented here and residents and interested parties will be comprehensively informed.
The planned construction work includes the construction of two-storey container housing modules, which will provide around 280 additional beds. The conversion also includes the installation of kitchens, which will enable the residents to be self-sufficient. In order to accommodate the refugees In order to ensure safety during the construction phase, many of the current residents have already been moved to other accommodation. Only five people are currently accommodated at An der Twiete and will have to move at short notice.
Increased integration offerings and expanded infrastructure
The expansion of the accommodation is also intended to expand the integration offering. For example, the Environmental Working Group is currently offering workshops on gardening and Russian-speaking teachers are running an arts and crafts project. A mobile play center visits the accommodation weekly and there is an information café specifically for adults. Midwife consultations are also offered on site. The DRK district association also organizes trips to Hamburg to give residents a better understanding of the surrounding area.
These diverse offerings make a significant contribution to the integration of refugees into German society. Participation in offerings outside of the accommodation is also encouraged in order to reduce inhibitions and improve integration. Overall, this is an exemplary approach of how cooperation and commitment can improve the quality of life of refugees and actively support their integration.
Ensuring accommodation until at least 2030
A rental agreement secures the use of the area for refugees at least until the end of August 2030. This enables long-term planning and ensures that no improvised solutions such as tents or the use of empty buildings are necessary. The social welfare office is currently successfully negotiating rental agreements for 14 hotels in Bergedorf, which can serve as additional accommodation until the end of 2025.
Preventive measures and political responsibility
The current situation raises the question of how politicians can better prevent such emergencies in the future. Forward-looking planning when creating accommodation and closer coordination between different authorities could help to find flexible and needs-based solutions. Furthermore, a long-term housing policy should be pursued that specifically takes into account the need for social housing. The expansion of integration offers in the communities also plays a crucial role in enabling orderly and successful integration. The combination of sufficient housing options and comprehensive social programs could significantly defuse future crises in the area of refugee accommodation.
Source: nachrichten.ag
