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The expansion of the "Neighbourhood Social Worker" programme throughout Cyprus, as well as the new State Grants Scheme for Social Welfare Services, was discussed by the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mrs Marilena Evangelou, with representatives of community clusters.
At a meeting held yesterday, Wednesday 28 June, in Skarinou, at the invitation of the President of the Union of Communities Mr. Andreas Kitromilidis, Ms. Evangelou referred to the importance she attaches to cooperation with the Local Government, stressing that communities and municipalities, as the closest institutions to citizens, are clearly more aware of the challenges and needs that arise, both at local and individual level.
Referring to the "Social Worker of the Neighbourhood" Programme, Ms Evangelou pointed out that it is already being implemented on a pilot basis in four municipalities where it is found that the largest number of YKE beneficiaries reside, in one municipality considered a remote area and in three communities in mountainous areas resulting from the Mountainous Areas Strategy.
Ms Evangelou extended an invitation to all communities to join the "Neighbourhood Social Worker" programme at the end of the pilot implementation. The response was positive, looking forward to a nationwide expansion of the programme.
The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare and the Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Services analysed the State Aid Plan of the Social Welfare Services, which is in alignment with the Recovery and Resilience Plan "Cyprus Tomorrow".
The new State Grants Scheme includes the granting of state funding to Local Authorities and Non-Governmental Organisations for the establishment of:
- multi-purpose centres for children,
- childcare centres,
- care and accommodation facilities for children, adolescents with behavioural disorders and adults with long-term care needs.
The aim is to establish 30 childcare facilities, 6 facilities for people with long-term care needs and 17 facilities for children in state care, nationwide.
In conclusion, he expressed the belief that the inclusion of Local Authorities in the policies promoted by the Ministry of State act as a catalyst in its efforts to strengthen local communities and ensure the required services for people with real care needs.
(AF/SX)
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