After a period of severe depression, Jean-Claude was hospitalised for treatment. During his time in hospital, he lost both his job and his flat, leaving him with nowhere to recover once discharged. Since the beginning of May, he has been staying at Maison L’Escale in Esch-sur-Alzette, a transitional facility that helps people in vulnerable situations regain stability in their daily lives.
At L’Escale, residents benefit from access to a nurse, a social worker, and psychological support. Jean-Claude initially struggled to accept his circumstances, but it was ultimately his family who convinced him to seek help. The centre provides more than just medical and psychological care; it is also a temporary home and a place to rebuild confidence.
Maison Médico-Psycho-Sociale L’Escale opened in March 2022 and has since welcomed more than 100 people. The facility can accommodate up to 10 residents at a time, with each person able to stay for up to a year. Currently, seven patients are receiving care at the centre.
The centre has already moved twice, now operating from the former Maison Schleimer, an annex of the Emile Mayrisch Hospital in Esch-sur-Alzette. This location offers improved facilities for residents, providing them with a more comfortable environment during what is, for many, a challenging transition period.
The Ministry of Health supports the project and, according to the Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch (CHEM), highlights the crucial role of social medicine in Luxembourg’s healthcare landscape.
About 20% of patients at L’Escale are Luxembourg nationals. This figure challenges the assumption that precariousness only affects certain groups and serves as a reminder that anyone can find themselves in need of support.
For Jean-Claude, his time at L’Escale will soon come to an end. He is taking steps, one at a time, to regain a stable life. Grateful for the support he has received, Jean-Claude says the structure, above all, has given him the opportunity for a new start.
