Intensive Pedagogical-Therapeutic Living Groups for Youth
Long-term measure for children and adolescents aged 12 and up:
PROGRESSO has developed a specialised phase-based programme for its intensive pedagogical and therapeutic residential youth groups. This structured approach provides a clear and transparent pathway for children and young people, helping them navigate their personal goals and developmental tasks within the support process. Given their frequent experiences of instability in relationships and attachment disruptions, the phased structure offers them a sense of stability and direction. Each location is tailored to address specific challenges and difficulties faced by the young people in our care.
"Quinta do Cerro" - The Living Group for Girls
The living group for girls covers 87 hectares and is situated in a peaceful rural area in the Alentejo mountains, just five kilometres from the village of Santa Cruz. A dirt road leads to the farm, following the course of the "Vascão" river, which separates the Algarve from the Alentejo. The river provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. The property includes a main house with a spacious living room, a large kitchen, two bathrooms, five single bedrooms, an office, storage rooms, a laundry room, and a terrace. In addition, there are two wooden houses, two bungalows, a workshop, stables with paddocks, a chicken coop, a vegetable garden, and a picnic area by the river. The farm is home to horses, chickens, and cats. Depending on their level of development, the young residents help care for the animals and participate in various farm tasks.
"Quinta do Cerro" provides a safe space for girls facing significant challenges, including difficulties in forming relationships, experiences of violence or abuse, and early signs of addiction.
"Nova Sembla" - The Living Group for Boys
The living group for boys is set on a one-hectare property in a picturesque valley in southern Alentejo, just two kilometres from the former mining village of Semblana. The land is rich with olive, orange, mandarin, nectarine, pomegranate, and loquat trees. The property also features several wells, an old washhouse, five small wooden houses for the young residents, two wooden houses for staff, two toilet and shower facilities, a wooden house with a kitchen, and a larger wooden house used as a communal living and activity space. Practical work is at the heart of this group, with a particular focus on gardening and craftwork. Young people are encouraged to explore their own creative ideas and develop their skills in a safe and supportive environment.
"Nova Sembla" is designed for boys who face significant challenges, such as experiences of violence and abuse, behavioural and emotional difficulties, or autism spectrum disorders.