A new study by HTWK Leipzig highlights shortcomings in the architectural and spatial implementation of the professional requirements of social work in Saxony’s care facilities
Shelters for adults affected by domestic violence and their children are far more than just places to stay. They are safe havens where, with professional support, residents can stabilise their lives, receive counselling, ensure the protection of their children and develop new prospects for the future. The new interdisciplinary pilot study by HTWK Leipzig shows that the architectural and spatial conditions of many facilities in Saxony only meet these professional requirements to a limited extent. The research report is now available for the public to download.
In a collaboration between the departments of Architecture and Social Sciences, the architectural and spatial conditions of Saxony’s shelters were systematically examined for the first time in relation to the requirements of social work. The aim was to analyse the extent to which spatial structures facilitate or hinder professional support processes.
“Social work needs space. As a safe haven for adults and their children, as well as for counselling, stabilisation, crisis intervention and professional reflection, suitable spatial structures are not a minor matter, but essential framework conditions for professional practice,” says Cornelia Sperling, research assistant in theDepartment of Social Sciences at HTWK Leipzig.
Focus on the quality of existing facilities
On behalf of the Saxon State Ministry for Social Affairs, Health and Social Cohesion, researchers at HTWK Leipzig investigated the structural, spatial and safety-related conditions at Saxony’s shelters. Based on objective measurements – such as room sizes, facilities and safety features – as well as the practical experiences of professionals and those seeking protection, a functional and subjective assessment of the spaces was carried out. “This approach enabled us to carry out a nuanced analysis of how architectural and spatial structures either facilitate or hinder social work, and what specific changes are required to improve the quality of support,” says Sperling. The team of researchers examined a total of 12 shelters comprising 8 shelter houses and 12 sheltered flats. This represents around 75 per cent of the shelters run by Saxon authorities.
Analysis of the space allocation plan, fittings and accessibility
Their analysis shows that none of the shelters examined fully meets the requirements of an ideal structural and spatial design. For example, there is a lack of private accommodation units with their own cooking, dining and bathroom facilities. This reduces the privacy and autonomy of those seeking protection and, due to the shared use of spaces, also leads to conflicts and stressful situations. Furthermore, there is a lack of sufficient counselling, group or exercise rooms for the delivery of professional social work, which makes the work of the specialist staff more difficult despite their high levels of resilience and commitment. There are also significant shortcomings in terms of accessibility. Accessibility is inadequate in almost all the facilities examined, meaning that people with mobility impairments or other disabilities find it difficult to use the premises.
Recommendations for action: Quantitative and qualitative expansion
The findings make it clear that the necessary expansion of shelter places must not be driven solely by quantitative considerations. The quality of the physical environment is a key prerequisite for safety, privacy and sustainable support processes. “Quantitative expansion must not undermine quality standards – and qualitative improvements must not lead to the loss of shelter places. After all, there are already too few places available in Saxony. Both aspects must be considered together – and, above all, with the involvement of specialist staff – and supported by qualified planning teams,” says Sperling.
In their study, the researchers have outlined what ideal architectural and spatial conditions might look like for those seeking protection – including their children and young people – and for successful social work carried out by professionals. The findings thus provide specific requirements for spaces and facilities, as well as structural proposals for both new builds and existing properties.
“The study is aimed equally at funding bodies, planning teams and service providers. It offers an empirically sound basis for architectural and spatial developments and supports the professional case for protection against violence,” says Sperling.
