Studierendenwerk cooperates with Lebenshilfe

More than a business relationship: This year Studierendenwerk started cooperation with the Workshops run by Lebenshilfe Aachen.

“You’re not able to do that!” – a sentence some people with a disability hear their whole life. The Workshops run by Lebenshilfe prove that they can be qualified professionals. Already for 50 years Lebenshilfe has given men and women with a disability the opportunity of gaining recognised qualifications and long-term job perspectives. The excellent know-how that comes along with these qualifications has convinced the Studierendenwerk Facility Management. Its green spaces are tended by the Lebenshilfe gardening department.

Since May 2018, the gardening team has worked on the grounds of our student residence halls. The list of tasks is long: Renewal of old green spaces, moss and weed control, planting as well as pruning of hedges, trees, and dead wood. Up until a few months ago the Facility Management could only take care of the most urgent gardening tasks because there was a lack of capacities. For a detailed maintenance program it also lacked time and specialist knowledge. Michael Keutgen, head of the residence halls, is satisfied with the efficiency of the cooperation – regardless of whether people with or without disability are at work. “The work of Lebenshilfe is of great value. The range of services offered is remarkable. What we especially appreciate: Because they are so flexible the teams can be asked for at short notice”, he tells.

He also pleased with Studierendenwerk’s social commitment and the decision to work together with the Lebenshilfe Workshops. “Of course, when placing an order the quality and professional know-how are decisive. The fact that we support people with disabilities is a great side benefit that corresponds to our company identity as social services provider”, says Keutgen.