According to research, children who grow up in institutions face serious challenges on multiple levels: lower IQ scores, delayed psychomotor development, attachment disorders, and impaired brain development.

In addition, they experience inadequate nutrition, insufficient medical and psychological care, and limited educational support. They often face learning difficulties, social isolation, stigma, and are highly vulnerable to abuse.

The consequences are shocking: they are 10 times more likely to be involved in prostitution, 40 times more likely to acquire a criminal record, and 500 times more likely to attempt suicide in adulthood.

In Greece, placing children in institutions remains the primary response when children are removed from their families. Young people who grow up in these environments lack essential skills for independent living in community-based settings and for entering the labour market. They remain “invisible” to society, while a lack of awareness fuels prejudice and exclusion. Institutions—especially for children and young people with disabilities—often function as abusive environments that violate fundamental human rights. Deinstitutionalization is therefore an urgent necessity.
(Source: Special Report of the Greek Ombudsman for Children’s Rights; www.wearelumos.org)

The program “Institutions Are Not the Solution” actively promotes deinstitutionalisation through a set of targeted, people-centred actions.

It empowers young people with disabilities living at P.A.A.P.A.B. (formerly PIKPA Voula) by developing critical life and social skills (soft skills), enabling them to build autonomy and prepare for independent living outside institutions.

The program provides specialised, individualised career counselling services to five young residents, strengthening their self-confidence, decision-making abilities, and life planning.

At the same time, it enhances the visibility and social participation of young people with disabilities through weekly outings, activities outside the institution, and meaningful interaction with the local community.

As part of its public awareness efforts, the program produces eight podcasts featuring life stories of people who have lived in institutions or have been involved with them as foster parents or volunteers. These narratives highlight the real impact of institutional life and challenge deeply rooted stereotypes.

Photo designed by www.freepik.com

Finally, the program mobilises society through a petition calling for the establishment of a World Deinstitutionalisation Day, strengthening public dialogue and advocacy for change.

Our online campaign is launching soon — stay tuned!
Your support is invaluable. Together, we can prove that institutions are not the solution.

Because the life outside the institution should not be a privilege — but a right.

The program is funded by the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation

within the framework of the Σημεία Στήριξης – Points of Support program,

which is co-funded by 10 charitable organisations.