Fuenlabrada teaches adults with disabilities to be independent

At 6 Arquímedes Street, there is a pilot centre where adults with intellectual disabilities and mental disorders learn skills for independent living and future work. Creative and practical workshops are offered in textiles, carpentry, candles and dried flowers, as well as courses in basic digital skills.

A personalised study plan is drawn up for each participant, taking their interests and abilities into account. Some already take part in volunteering projects and try different professions, from warehouse workers to assemblers and cleaners. “The aim is to develop autonomy, social skills and self-confidence,” explains the centre’s director, Laura Sánchez.

Not only trades are taught: empathy, emotional regulation, communication and problem-solving are also worked on. Adolescents and adults learn to work as a team, develop their talents and prepare for their future working lives. The centre has become the first in the Community of Madrid to offer a basic digital skills course and is preparing to offer new opportunities to its participants.