Procedural Guide - Advice on Integration Assistance Services
The Procedural Navigator provides free and independent support and guidance to young people with disabilities and their families in the
- submitting applications and
- exercising
their rights to integration assistance benefits.
Details
Individuals whose ability to participate in society is significantly limited by a disability, or who are at risk of such a significant limitation, receive integration assistance benefits.
Effective January 1, 2024, Section 10b of Book VIII of the Social Code (SGB VIII) establishes the role of a so-called “process navigator” nationwide. This individual can support and guide families when integration assistance benefits are being considered.
Consultations can take place in person, by phone, via video conference, or at home or at an educational institution.
The support may include:
- Explanation of eligibility requirements
- Clarification of the substantive and territorial jurisdiction for the required assistance
- Clarification of other responsible service providers
- Assistance with filing the application
- Assistance throughout the administrative process
- Determination of decision deadlines
- Information on statements and expert opinions
- Assistance with fulfilling participation requirements
- Assistance with accessing services
- Support in connecting with service providers and other sources of assistance
- Accompaniment to participation and comprehensive planning meetings as a trusted advisor
Parents often submit applications for potential assistance for their child, such as early intervention, an inclusive spot in a preschool, sensory-specific support, school support, or placement in residential care facilities.
Applications for integration assistance services are processed by the Jena Youth Welfare Office’s Integration Services department, located at Am Anger 13, 07743 Jena.
Legal Basis
Pursuant to Section 10b(1), sentence 1, of SGB VIII, young people who claim integration assistance benefits due to a disability or an impending disability, or who are eligible for such benefits, as well as their mothers, fathers, guardians, and legal guardians are entitled to support and guidance from a procedural navigator when applying for, pursuing, and receiving these benefits.