Last month, Tessa Hamers and Frank van Milt, both from HVO-Querido, embarked on a journey to Poitiers by train to deliver a compelling training session to their French colleagues from Un Chez Soi d’Abord. The purpose of the training was to introduce the principles of Strength-Based Work and Housing First, using inspiring tools like Positive Health.
Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Mickaël Puech, one of the event’s organizers and a project manager at Chez Soi d’Abord. What set this training apart was the presence of colleagues and residents from across France, who had come together specifically for this three-day event.
Tessa and Frank prepared themselves early for the following day when they were scheduled to conduct the training. Given their limited fluency in the French language, Mickaël seamlessly provided translations. The training began with an inspirational session in which they shared how their tools had evolved from practical experience. Participants actively engaged in learning how to use these tools with the intention of presenting them to others. The Positive Health Spiderweb was a standout component, and it was received with great enthusiasm.
The morning proved to be fruitful, revealing the extent of practical questions about supporting clients and optimizing team organization to leverage each other’s knowledge and skills. This aligns perfectly with the scope of their work at the Expertise Center.
What stood out was France’s commitment to adhere to model fidelity, following the principles of Housing First, in collaboration with all Housing First practitioners in the country. For Tessa and Frank, this was an exceptionally inspiring experience.
The training was so successful that requests are already pouring in from various French districts for additional training sessions related to these tools. This is viewed as a privilege, where practical experience can serve as a unique source of inspiration. Next year, they will once again participate in a similar event, this time in Strasbourg. It promises to be a continuation of their valuable contribution to the Housing First movement in France.
Want to learn more?
- Free download of the French Dialogue tool ‘Ma Santé Positive’.
- Read more about our international training program.
