In 2023, the government is making a powerful move by providing €17 million to support 276 care programs from 154 voluntary organizations, aimed at enhancing social welfare services and fostering social cohesion. Deputy Social Welfare Minister Marilena Evangelou announced this funding as part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, which will also introduce new facilities for children and support services for the elderly.
How is the government supporting voluntary organizations in 2023?
In 2023, the government is supporting voluntary organizations with a €17 million fund to enhance social welfare services. This funding will support 276 care programs from 154 different organizations, expanding social care infrastructure under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, and fostering social cohesion with initiatives such as subsidized care for the elderly.
A Substantial Financial Boost
In an act of considerable support for the community, the government has allocated over €17 million to bolster the efforts of voluntary organizations in 2023. This substantial investment in social welfare signifies the growing importance of these groups in providing essential services. Deputy Social Welfare Minister Marilena Evangelou highlighted this financial backing during a discussion with members of the Pancyprian Coordinating Council for Volunteerism. Evangelou emphasized the government’s recognition of these groups as critical allies in extending the reach of social services.
The funding, supporting 276 care programmes from 154 different organizations, marks an upward trend in both the number of programmes receiving aid and the total funding amount. This pattern underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the social safety net through collaborations with voluntary sectors.
Expanding Social Care Infrastructure
Furthering the commitment to social welfare, the Deputy Ministry is actively working on growing the infrastructure for social care under the ambitious Recovery and Resilience Plan stretching from 2021 to 2026. Plans are underway to initiate various projects, including new multipurpose centers for children, childcare facilities, and round-the-clock care services for adults in need of long-term attention.
The deputy minister also pointed out the ongoing efforts to refine state support mechanisms. These include the continuous improvement of social services quality and the availability of social welfare officers across districts, who are ready to lend a helping hand to NGOs and local authorities alike.
Policies for Social Cohesion and Support
Marilena Evangelou shed light on key policies geared toward fostering social cohesion. A noteworthy announcement was the imminent plan to subsidize accommodation and care services for the elderly, awaiting the Council of Ministers’ nod. This initiative is indicative of the ministry’s dedication to caring for the aging population.
The ministry is also setting the stage to broaden the neighbourhood social worker programme across the nation. This expansion is poised to enhance the collaboration between the state and local governing bodies. Legislation updates concerning child adoption, fostering, and disability laws are part of the comprehensive effort to improve social support systems. Work is also in progress to remodel the national disability strategy for 2024-2028, underscoring a cooperative approach involving stakeholders and social partners.
Addressing Challenges and Ensuring Support
The consultation also served as a platform for NGO representatives to voice their concerns about issues like state funding, staffing shortfalls in care facilities, and the demand for specialized personnel. Evangelou reassured the attendees of the ministry’s unwavering backing in these challenging areas.
In the sphere of social welfare, the government’s actions reflect a robust commitment to enhancing the quality of life for various community members. Through financial aid and strategic planning, the state is poised to make significant strides in supporting children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
FAQ
How much funding is the government providing to voluntary organizations in 2023?
The government is providing €17 million to support 276 care programs from 154 voluntary organizations in 2023. This funding is part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan aimed at enhancing social welfare services.
What types of programs will the funding support?
The funding will support a variety of care programs, including initiatives aimed at improving social welfare services for children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. It also includes the establishment of new facilities, such as multipurpose centers for children and round-the-clock care services for adults in need.
What are the key initiatives planned under the Recovery and Resilience Plan?
Key initiatives under the Recovery and Resilience Plan include the expansion of social care infrastructure, the establishment of childcare facilities, subsidized accommodation and care services for the elderly, and an enhancement of the neighbourhood social worker program across the nation.
How is the government addressing challenges faced by voluntary organizations?
The government, through Deputy Social Welfare Minister Marilena Evangelou, is actively engaging with NGO representatives to discuss challenges like state funding and staffing shortages in care facilities. The ministry is committed to providing ongoing support to ensure the effective delivery of social services and improve the quality of care across various programs.
