The WUMA Etzmatte is the starting block for the UMAs on their long journey to successful integration in Switzerland. Here, an average of around 25 UMAs, accompanied by an experienced support team, can receive a basic medical examination, deal with their first visits to the authorities, attend Erlenhof’s own initial reception school to improve their German language skills as quickly as possible and find some peace and quiet after the sometimes traumatizing experience of fleeing.
The young men, aged between 12 and 18, gain experience of living together in a socially acceptable way, make friends and make plans for the future. The Etzmatte team’s case management team works with the UMAs’ guardians to set the course for the individual’s future education and living situation.
