Each day, the statistics on autism become increasingly alarming. Much remains to be discovered, but it is already certain that autism represents a true public health challenge that urgently needs to be addressed.

Historically, social action has been entrusted to the associative sector, but today it finds itself at an impasse. In a context of significant facility shortages, the implementation of Regional Health Agencies (A.R.S.) in 2010 and the drastic reduction of budgets have greatly weakened associations that depend entirely on public funding. They are no longer able to fulfill their missions.

A social worker for nearly 20 years, first as a specialized educator and then as a service manager, Grégory Fidile embarked on creating an innovative and ambitious project: developing a new model of social action to meet unmet societal needs. Supporting families with children with disabilities, and particularly those affected by autism, which requires very specific intervention.

Where he believes “the State has failed by leaving part of society on the sidelines,” he undertakes the challenge of creating in Nice a Person Assistance Service specialized and managed by a private legal entity. This initiative is part of the Social and Solidarity Economy, with dual recognition as a “Solidary Company of Social Utility” and “assistance for disabled persons” with the Service of Support and Home Assistance (S.A.A.D.)

This project also brings a breath of fresh air generating employment in a professional sector facing increasing challenges. This service, which will be inaugurated between Nice and Saint Laurent du Var on January 1st (subject to approvals), will serve as a prototype.

The project is the winner of the business creation contest organized by the senior students of the Lycée Thierry Maulnier in Nice.