Intellectual disability represents a major societal challenge in Switzerland, affecting between 17,000 and 51,000 people under 20, of whom approximately 12,000 receive specialized support. Young people with intellectual disabilities face several specific challenges. In terms of development and learning, they require personalized support adapted to their individual abilities and early stimulation. School and social inclusion represents a complex challenge, with risks of isolation and marginalization, requiring specific support to promote social interactions. Learning autonomy and daily activities must be done gradually, with adapted supports. Regular and coordinated medical follow-up is also essential, including various specialized therapies.

A concerning trend is the significant increase in challenging behaviors among these young people. These behaviors, which may include self-harm, aggression toward others, invasive stereotypies, material destruction, inappropriate social conduct and eating disorders, have important consequences on the person's life and their environment, often limiting access to social relationships.

For families, the journey is particularly demanding. Daily support represents a considerable emotional and physical burden, requiring constant adaptation of the family framework and difficult reconciliation with professional life. Parents must navigate a complex educational system, coordinate multiple service providers and face high costs for therapies and specialized equipment. Administrative procedures are time-consuming, with the obligation to regularly justify a disability that is nevertheless permanent. Furthermore, families sometimes find their parental role questioned, even when they are legal guardians.

This issue highlights the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to improve the quality of life of young people with intellectual disabilities and their families in Switzerland. The insieme-Geneva association offers a personalized approach for people with intellectual disabilities through two essential services. First, adapted stays with intensive supervision (1:1 or even 2:1 ratio), welcoming even the most complex profiles - a unique offer in the canton despite demand exceeding the capacity of 200 annual places. Second, administrative and social support (over 600 hours of requests) supporting families in their procedures, their interactions with institutions and defending their children's rights, thus ensuring that their voice is heard in project development.

Specific objectives:

• Offer leisure time and activities that create social bonds and learning opportunities for children and young people with intellectual disabilities.
• Relay families to offer them respite and rest time through short stay programs.
• Support families in finding the most suitable solutions for their children's well-being through a free advisory service and training.

The association primarily supports people with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders and challenging behaviors, often with physical dependency and severe disability allowances. Young people under 20 represent 20.3% of participants in long stays and 70% in short stays, with a majority (90 to 100%) presenting moderate to severe disability. For some beneficiaries, the association is the only organization providing leisure activities, with others being refused elsewhere due to their behavioral disorders.

The association particularly supports single-parent families (33%), often forced into part-time work, and immigrant families (16%), facing additional challenges in accessing rights.