Integration assistance
Support for children and young people with mental disabilities
The General Social Service (ASD) offers targeted support for children and young people who are affected by an (impending) mental disability as part of integration assistance in accordance with Section 35a SGB VIII. The aim is to ensure the social participation of these young people and to promote their individual development in the best possible way.
What does integration assistance do?
The specialists in the General Social Service specialising in integration assistance advise and support children, young people and their families with mental stress or mental illness. Together with all those involved, we develop customised support to break down barriers and enable participation - at school, in the social environment and in everyday family life.
Typical tasks in the area of integration assistance are
- Counselling on support services and rights according to §35a SGB VIII
- Coordinating and arranging assistance (e.g. integration assistance, curative education measures)
- Help planning in dialogue with families and professionals
- Cooperation with schools, daycare centres, doctors, therapists and independent providers
- Monitoring and control of the measures provided to ensure their effectiveness
When is a mental disability present?
Children and young people may have a mental disability if a mental disorder (e.g. anxiety disorder, depression, ADHD, autism) persists over a long period of time and severely restricts their participation in society. The diagnosis is made on the basis of child and adolescent psychiatric reports and with the involvement of the General Social Services.
What is the aim?
The specialists are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to lead a self-determined life - regardless of health or mental health challenges. Integration assistance helps to enable participation and relieve families in stressful situations.
