When governments close institutions without developing adequate community-based alternatives—as has been the case in the United States—many residents have neither the skills nor support they need to establish a satisfying and safe life in the community. Without housing, employment, social activities, and support networks, people leaving institutions may become socially excluded.

The development of adequate community-based services should always be undertaken in parallel with institutional closure. It is neither fair nor realistic to expect people, many of whom have lived most of their lives in institutions, to move to the community and thrive without such support.

EVV takes away adequate support