The Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD) has launched the project “Inclusive Accommodation and Protection of Vulnerable IDPs in Kharkiv Oblast” with the support of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). The project aims not only to improve living conditions in collective sites for internally displaced persons (IDPs), but also to make these spaces more accessible and safer for people with diverse needs.

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Russia’s full-scale invasion has forced millions of Ukrainians to leave their homes. For many, collective sites have become a place of refuge for months or even years. Living conditions can be particularly challenging for persons with disabilities, older people, and others with limited mobility, as facilities used to accommodate IDPs are not always adapted to their needs.

That is why the project takes a comprehensive approach — from assessing each collective site and carrying out adaptation works to providing individual support to its residents.

From Needs Assessment to Practical Changes

Work at each selected collective site begins with a comprehensive assessment. Specialists evaluate physical, informational, and organizational accessibility, identify residents’ needs, and prepare recommendations and an adaptation plan. Based on the assessment, the necessary works, technical solutions, and implementation schedule are agreed upon with the facility manager.

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The next stage involves adapting the premises. Depending on the assessment results, this may include modifications to entrances, sanitation and hygiene facilities, and common areas, as well as the installation of ramps, handrails, and other accessibility features.

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Importantly, the project does not apply a one-size-fits-all approach. Solutions are developed according to the actual condition of each collective site and the specific needs of its residents.

More Than Renovation

Physical accessibility is only one component of the project. Selected collective sites will also receive specialized equipment, including functional beds, handrails, sanitary chairs, bathroom assistive equipment, and other items for shared use.

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Another important area is access to information and services. Accessible information materials will be developed and distributed to inform residents about their rights, available services, and mechanisms for receiving assistance. Information sessions will also be held so that residents can learn more about available support and ways to protect their rights.

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Individual Support for Residents

The project also provides individual assistance to residents of collective sites. This includes case management, legal assistance, psychosocial support, and the provision of adaptive devices.

In urgent or critical cases, following an individual assessment of needs and risks, residents may receive targeted financial assistance through Cash for Protection. When a person requires support that is not covered by the project, they may be referred to other specialized services.

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This means that the project is not only about transforming buildings. At its core is the individual — their safety, dignity, independence, and ability to access the support they need.

Changes Designed to Last Beyond the Project

Cooperation with local communities and collective site administrations is an essential part of the initiative. Communities are involved in identifying collective sites, coordinating technical solutions and works, and facilitating residents’ participation in project activities. They are also expected to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the equipment after the project is completed.

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The project team will monitor the implementation of works, provide consultations to collective site administrations, collect feedback from residents, and oversee the quality of project activities.

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The “Inclusive Accommodation and Protection of Vulnerable IDPs in Kharkiv Oblast” project is about moving from temporary shelter toward an environment that takes people’s diverse needs into account. It is about accessibility not only on paper, but in everyday life: being able to enter a building, use sanitation facilities, move through common spaces, access information, receive services, and obtain necessary support.

It is through such practical changes that an environment can be created where dignity, safety, and accessibility become the norm for everyone.