The students presented the results of their investigations in Benediktbeuern. The study was commissioned and supervised by Professor Egon Endres (right). © Hampton
Every year, Professor Egon Endres from the Catholic Foundation University (KSH) on the campus in Benediktbeuern works with students of social work to develop the study "Arriving: Networks for the Integration of People with Refugee Experiences". The results have now been presented in Benediktbeuern.
Benediktbeuern/Munich – This time, the students interviewed the residents of four refugee shelters as a result of a cooperation with Caritas in Munich. The results revealed some exciting aspects: "It was interesting that doctors play an important role in the everyday lives of refugees, more important than even the employees of Caritas had expected," said Endres. The fact that this applies above all to the advisory role of gynaecologists would have already been shown by a survey four years ago in the Loisach Valley (we reported). The current study also makes it clear how important medical practices play in the context of successful integration, especially for women. Medical practices and their staff play an important supporting role, and quite a few would do so with heart and soul, the students concluded.
Experienced great willingness to talk
All those involved were impressed by the openness with which they were received in the four communal shelters by both the Caritas teams and the refugees: "At first, we had doubts as to whether our surveys might be more of a nuisance and increase stress. However, it was expressed that the surveys mean appreciation and attention for the participants and are also associated with the expectation that the study results will bring about improvements," Endres explained.
Demand: Housing must be improved
The students also note that improvements to the conditions in the shelters are urgently needed: "We were shocked by the accommodation of refugees and families from Ukraine in a lightweight hall that no longer allows any intimacy at all. People hardly have any personal space, and even children, for example, can only set up their cuddly toys on the edge of the bed to a limited extent because it is cramped and fire protection does not allow it," they described their observations.
According to a statement from KSH, Endres' project is a welcome opportunity for students every year to exchange ideas with people who experience disadvantage, have special needs or take advantage of socio-educational services. Endres was very satisfied after the presentation of the results and praised the students for their commitment. Now it is to be hoped that the mission will bear fruit and perhaps bring about one or two changes, Endres said.
You can find even more up-to-date news from the region at Merkur.de/Bad Tölz.
