We now also use the knowledge and experience we gained from managing municipal reception locations for Ukrainian refugees to manage reception locations for other target groups. Like in Venlo, where we provide property management for an emergency reception centre for status holders.
Managing shelter locations goes beyond purely technical, facility or administrative property management. Residents of these crisis locations have often had to leave their home in order to find a safe place elsewhere and build a new future. It is therefore extremely important that our caretakers are also closely involved in the social aspect. They always try, together with the social-housing organisation on site, to ensure that the residents not only get a new place to stay, but that it also feels like a new home.
For Keith Nooijen, caretaker at a reception site for status holders in Venlo, the social aspect plays an essential role in creating a community. ‘I think as a caretaker you are more than just a building manager. Of course, it is important that the building is clean, safe and technically in order, but I am also the first point of contact and a listening ear for the residents.’
To keep the cooperation between caretakers, residents, and other parties on track, clear communication is key. In Keith's case, this means that he has frequent and good contact with the social manager on site in Venlo, Wasbeer & Pauw. ‘We start every day with a meeting where we discuss any problems together with residents and security. This way, any problems can already be nipped in the bud, and we show residents that we are really involved, take them seriously and do not ignore them.’
‘It really is one community.’
One of the ways Keith and others involve, activate and encourage residents is by organising joint activities, such as celebrating Carnaval or attending local football matches. There is also a lot of volunteering done for and with residents, such as cleaning up street litter. Organising such activities and volunteering helps create a positive atmosphere at the shelter. ‘It really is a community, and we try to make all residents part of that community even though the residents come from different cultures and often do not even speak the same language. Each new resident is taken under the wing of the ‘old’ residents to familiarise them with the way things are done. We also organise workshops every Thursday afternoon, ranging from background information on the residents' origins to practical matters such as taxes and Dutch customs, such as Sinterklaas.’
'When saying goodbye, everyone always comes together!'
Of course, this accommodation is merely a temporary step towards a permanent housing solution. "It's always wonderful when residents find their own place, but it's also a bittersweet moment because you're saying goodbye to someone within the community. At such farewells, everyone comes together, and I still keep in touch with many former residents!"
This approach, based on respect, communication, and collaboration, demonstrates that a caretaker plays a crucial role not only in property management but also in the social aspect of creating a community. This is especially true in an environment where residents from diverse backgrounds live together while awaiting their future.