Social space gives homeless people the courage to return to society

Studies have shown that sports communities can function as a sort of practice field for social engagement (Danish Institute for Sports Studies, 2019).

The living space at Møltrup Community Home shows how architecture can create a safe and inclusive environment that encourages people to participate in the community. The residents and staff have pointed out how the multi-functional facilities, different-sized rooms and secluded seating areas have encouraged people who would otherwise keep to themselves to participate in leisure activities. Thus, the new living space creates opportunities for participation that help develop social skills, which in time will make it easier for the residents to join communities outside of Møltrup.

Prior to the expansion of Møltrup Community Home, many residents found it difficult to leave the safe environment of the manor house to participate in local community activities. However, the new living space has also created a stronger involvement with the local community. With its large windows and events such as lectures, concerts and summer parties, more locals are now visiting Møltrup Community Home. Here, they can experience daily life in the new living space and interact with the residents. Research suggests that there is limited demand on the job market for the socially vulnerable, which is why it can be difficult to integrate them back into the workforce (VIVE, 2017). Thus, by getting the residents to participate in events with local citizens, they can become more recognized in the eyes of the world.

Creating positive experiences with leisure time, social situations and interaction with the outside world makes sense not only for the residents, but for society as well. Research shows that the participation of socially vulnerable citizens in social, creative or physical activities can help them prepare for further education or employment (VIVE, 2021). This has the potential of saving between 223,000-339,000 DKK per person in social benefits each year. At the same time, meaningful employment can prevent individuals from relapsing into addiction and substance abuse (VIVE, 2021).