Institutions for persons with disabilities A recycling operation set itself the objective of giving even “challenging” clients a chance, not to let them go when there are difficulties and to always find a solution to problems. Clients in this operation are extremely motivated and feel very much appreciated. They emphasised their satisfaction to Commission 5 because they were deployed according to their abilities, received recognition and were given opportunities for professional development. Co-operations with other regional operations make this possible. There is hardly any absenteeism. Creative solutions to behavioural problems Another recycling operation in Lower Austria was also assessed by Commission 5 as being a best practice example of inclusion. The facility functions like a “normal” production operation whereby special consideration is given for clients up to care level 3 who are accepted to work there. Subsidies from the Land make it possible for clients to complete basic training courses or specific advanced training, aligned to their respective speed. The acquired skills (e.g. driving licence or forklift driving licence) make it easier to find work. Training becomes possible A workshop was praised as an extremely positive example of the process of client self-representation. One client was chosen as peer group leader after an “invitation to tender” and was trained by an external trainer. He now moderates monthly meetings with other clients from the same region at which they exchange experience and ideas. Assistants who are bound to secrecy are engaged as required. The wishes and complaints are forwarded to the operator organisation in a structured manner, which understands these suggestions as a mandate to act. Peer group leader selected Commission 3 reported about a facility which took care to provide special places in which to withdraw when persons become overstimulated. These can be designed individually: one resident built a kind of cave out of scarves as a “safe place” and uses a sign to let other residents know when she wants complete quiet. There is an anger refuge with a boxing bag and a drum for reducing aggression in the garden. Anger refuge for reducing aggression The pleasant, warm design of the common rooms in a shared accommodation was mentioned as a best practice example. The residents can individually decorate the single rooms with their own furniture and accessories. Furthermore, activities are organised outside of the daily structure, which also provide an opportunity to meet people without disabilities. For example, clients can take part in swimming lessons and swimming competitions. Individual decorating and numerous activities Another facility was praised by Commission 1 because of the individual care it provides. Clients are treated there in a warm-hearted and respectful way as a general rule. Clients have their own email address and access to a PC and are encouraged to use the same. Inclusion and normality are promoted through cooperation with a special pedagogical centre, a kindergarten and the local community. 104