Ikano Bolig helped renovate the 17th century apartment and along with Ikano Bank, they help pay the rent. IKEA has decorated and furnished the flat with 8 beds in central Copenhagen, where Joannahuset create a shelter for underaged Danes who have escaped their family homes because of physical and mental abuse and exploitation. The shelter’s warm and cozy atmosphere help the youngsters feel at home and makes it easier for social workers and volunteers to get them the support and help they truly need.

“We have bookshelves and soft pillows and they love that they can just throw themselves on the sofa. It’s homely and very unlike the office of any authority they may have sought help from. Also, the homely atmosphere helps opening up for the difficult experiences they carry with them and that we’d like to talk to them about,” says Jette Wilhelmsen.

Photos all right: Donald Michael Bowie Chambers

Photos all right: Donald Michael Bowie Chambers

Directing focus to the cause

Recently, Joannahuset was given the Tine Bryld award, a prestigious prize for their ground-breaking social work. Joannahuset is the only crisis centre/shelter for young people under the age of 18 in Denmark. Since no Danish laws cover homelessness for this age group, Joannahuset has been working to create new solutions under difficult legal circumstances. That is why winning the prize and getting the support from partners such as Ikano Bolig, Ikano Bank and IKEA is vital to Joannahuset.

“This recognition is so important – in trying to change status quo, we need it. The support and the prize help us direct the attention on and voice the need of children and youngsters in difficult circumstances. We hope to create new departures in social work in Denmark and hopefully push the boundaries for current laws. Finally, we hope to be able to open a Joannahus in more cities across Denmark,” concludes Jette Wilhelmsen.