Luxembourg has launched a rehabilitation programme

In February, the Maison Sourrire social and vocational project was launched, with the aim of integrating vulnerable groups into the labour market. The initiative is aimed at 47 beneficiaries who previously received social assistance (REVIS) and faced systemic difficulties in finding stable employment. The project operates as a multi-functional hub combining a café, a shop and specialist workshops.

The training programme is designed to give participants the freedom to choose their area of focus, which, according to the organisation’s director, Marie Laurini, is a crucial factor for people who are often deprived of agency in their everyday lives. Participants can develop skills in areas such as catering, upcycling, cleaning, logistics and administration. The focus is not only on technical skills, but also on restoring psychological resilience.

The participants’ personal stories confirm the therapeutic benefits of employment. Sandrine Ermer, 35, reports a significant improvement in her mental health following a long period of struggling with depression. Another participant, Sophie Brillet, a mother of several children who took a 22-year career break, is using her job at a shop reception to rebuild her social connections and sense of self-worth.

The project structure involves the conclusion of 11-month employment contracts. At the end of this period, Maison Sourrire’s management assists employees in transitioning to the private sector by engaging partner companies willing to offer jobs to people with gaps in their employment history. This initiative is a pilot scheme and is being implemented with co-funding from the Ministry of Family and Integration. The programme is currently scheduled to run for two years.