Constellations brings together young people with mental disabilities and their parents, professionals in the sector and anyone who is interested in helping to provide the necessary
assistance to people with mental disabilities.
All of us recognize the rights of people with mental disabilities as written in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (United Nations General Assembly, 30 March
2007). We are committed to promote, protect and insure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms of people with disabilities, and we will advocate for
the respect of their intrinsic dignity.
Our key convictions in this regard have guided us in our own charter:
- respect for people with disabilities as adults with their own rights
- the importance of openness to others and “living together” in the city
- quality of life
- the possibility to make their own choices
Our centres are managed in accordance with the legal and regulatory requirements applicable in the regions that have granted the approval.
Ideally, the places to live which we provide should be located in the city, well-served by public transport and in the vicinity of shops and recreational centres.
Buildings for accommodation and those for daytime activities should be separated but nearby each other. This way, they will be easily identifiable as two separate units: one where “I
am during the day to participate in activities”, and the other one “where I am at home and can relax.” The two buildings are constructed differently, which helps the residents emotionally and
mentally to structure their lives, which in turn contributes to their autonomy.
1. Our Goals
The person with a mental disability receives tailor-made support. This support promotes inclusion within society and active participation in the way he or she wants to shape their own life.
2. Focal community
The association was established with the aim of providing places to stay for young people after they leave the school system, since there was an acute shortage of this kind of places.
The centres which have been created by our association, and those we have helped to create or have supported, are aimed primarily at young adults with moderate to severe mental
disabilities, in combination or not with other disabilities.
3. Philosophy and Ethical projects
- To guarantee the freedom of philosophical, political and religious opinion. In this context, attention will be paid to ensuring that everyone can express their personal convictions and,
to the extent of their abilities, put them into practice. Likewise, each person will be expected to respect the opinion of others.
- To allow each person the freedom to form emotional and sexual bonds with the partner of his or her choice. The centres will be careful to recognise these ties and to put into practice this
recognition, for example by responding favourably to a request for a change in accommodation. If the person is still considered as a minor, or is under guardianship,
decisions about his or her emotional or sexual life will be made in consultation with, and with the agreement of, parents or guardians.
- To strive to meet the aspirations, demands and needs of adults with mental disabilities in living as harmoniously and independently as possible, taking into account their possibilities
and providing them with the guidance, support and security they need to do so.
- To aim at promoting collaboration and consultation between people with disabilities, professional support and families. Encourage interaction with external stakeholders (support
services, family planning, legal service, mental health service, etc.).
- To develop a warm environment in the centres in order to ensure the well-being of the persons with mental disabilities.
