The non-profit organization Constellations – Sterrenbeelden vzw brings together parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities, people with intellectual disabilities
themselves, professionals in the sector, and anyone who wishes to contribute to providing individuals with intellectual disabilities the help and assistance they seek.
All parties recognize the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (United Nations General Assembly, March 30,
2007) and commit to promoting, protecting, and ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by persons with disabilities, while respecting their inherent
dignity.
The founding goal of the non-profit is to provide a solution to the challenges faced by young people who cannot find a place to go once they leave the school system.
The core mission of the organization is the creation of DAY ACTIVITY CENTERS (DAC) and ADAPTED COLLECTIVE HOUSING (ACH) for people with moderate to severe
disabilities.
Over time, Constellations has also established itself as a reference in the complex and still little-known field of Dual Diagnosis.
This commitment is reflected in the creation and support of structures tailored to the needs of individuals suffering from intellectual disabilities combined with mental illness and/or behavioral
disorders.
Through innovative projects, the non-profit has successfully combined the creation of adapted spaces with the development of essential training programs to improve the care for these heavily
disabled individuals.
As a pioneer in setting up the first Dual Diagnosis unit in Brussels, Constellations remains deeply committed to this specialty. It will continue to make this expertise a central element of its
future projects in this specific field.
A few guiding principles have shaped our reflections:
- Respect for adults with disabilities as full-fledged adults;
- Openness to others, living together, and social inclusion;
- Well-being and quality of life;
- Enabling individuals with disabilities to make their own choices.
1. Objective
To provide support and care tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities, with a focus on their active participation in their life projects and their inclusion in the community.
2. Target Audience
The living spaces created, supported, or assisted by the non-profit Constellations are primarily intended for young adults with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities, with or without
additional disabilities.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that with the increased life expectancy of individuals with intellectual disabilities, existing facilities are no longer meeting the specific needs of
aging individuals. Therefore, it has become imperative to address this reality and develop living spaces adapted to this aging population.
3. Philosophy and Ethics of the Projects
a) Guaranteeing individuals the freedom of philosophical, political, and religious beliefs.
In this context, attention will be paid to ensuring that everyone can express their personal beliefs and, as far as their abilities allow, practice them. Similarly, it will be expected that
individuals respect the opinions of others.
b) Allowing everyone the freedom to establish affective and sexual relationships with the partner(s) of their choice.
Care providers will recognize these relationships and support them, for example, by responding favorably to requests for housing arrangements. If the individual is under extended minority status
or guardianship, decisions regarding affective and sexual life will be made in agreement with parents or guardians.
c) Striving to meet the aspirations, needs, and desires of adults with intellectual disabilities to live as harmoniously and independently as possible, given their abilities, and by providing the
support, assistance, and security they need to achieve this.
d) Promoting collaboration and consultation between individuals with disabilities, professional support staff, and families. Also fostering interactions with external actors (support services,
family planning, legal services, mental health services, etc.).
e) Developing a social climate within living spaces that ensures the well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities, while respecting the diversity of needs and identities.
4. Characteristics of the Facilities
The facilities will be managed in accordance with the legal and regulatory provisions applicable to centers approved by public authorities.
Ideally, living spaces will be located in urban areas, away from busy traffic, and close to leisure activities, shops, and public transport.
Residential and day activity centers will be located near each other but in separate buildings, allowing them to be recognized as two distinct living units: one for daytime activities and the
other as “where I live”, my personal living and relaxation space. This separation contributes to the mental and emotional structure of the residents and supports their autonomy.
