As part of the HELIOS+ project, the 7th focus group discussion was held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at YMCA Thessaloniki, with the participation of professionals from housing programmes, representatives of property owners, real estate agencies, as well as beneficiaries of the project from the Thessaloniki area.

The meeting focused on the real conditions of access to housing, highlighting the complex nature of the issue, which is shaped by structural, administrative, and social factors. Through an open and participatory dialogue, participants identified key challenges such as the absence of an organized social housing system, the reliance on the private rental market, and the difficulties related to building trust between landlords and tenants.

Particular reference was made to the administrative challenges affecting access to housing, as well as the need for better preparation and support of beneficiaries in practical matters related to renting accommodation. At the same time, the crucial role of mediation by organizations was emphasized, especially in cases where building trust among the involved parties is required.

The discussion was opened by Dolores Tarrafeta, Social Cohesion Coordinator of the HELIOS+ Centre, who welcomed participants and provided a brief introduction to the HELIOS+ project and the work of YMCA Thessaloniki. The floor was then given to the moderator of the discussion, Stylianos Kelaiditis, Project Assistant of the PATHS programme (Providing Assistance for Transitioning Housing Solutions), who introduced the topic and emphasized the importance of maintaining an open, respectful, and constructive dialogue, acknowledging the complexity of the issue and the value of different perspectives.

The PATHS programme operates the platform heliospiti.com and is coordinated by IOM Greece, funded by the European Social Fund (ESF+), with a focus on supporting beneficiaries in their transition to sustainable housing and independent living.

The meeting confirmed the importance of collaboration between organizations, local stakeholders, and beneficiaries themselves, highlighting the need for more coordinated and sustainable approaches in the field of housing.

The Helios+ Project is implemented in cooperation with IOM Greece and funded by ΕΣΠΑ through ΕΥΣΥΔ – ΜΕΥ of Ministry of Migration and Asylum (Υπουργείο Μετανάστευσης & Ασύλου) and with the co-financing of the European Union.