The European Union funds 3.1 Million EUR in Albania for Social Care

The European Union launched today the new ‘EU for Social Care’ programme. The programme is funded by the EU and implemented by UNICEF Albania and World Vision, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection.

This 3.1 million EUR project, will support 14 municipalities, for a period of 36 months, to establish and expand social care services to address the needs and rights of vulnerable groups such as children with disabilities, women at risk, and young people in difficult situations.

This project is expected to reach 6000 families at risk through the provision of social care services and introduce innovative practices, and support with tailored training and mentoring for around 350 professionals and frontline workers in social care. All activities and actions have been designed to respond to the EU integration requirements for the country.

Aiming to establish different typologies of social care services, it will also promote volunteerism and engage young people and students.

The inaugural event at the Europe House Premises, brought together municipalities and social care services and was attended by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ms. Albana Koçiu, EU Ambassador Mr. Silvio Gonzato, and UNICEF Representative Mr. Murat Sahin. 

In his greeting remarks, Ambassador Gonzato said: The EU is not just economics – it’s also about values. As Albania progresses towards joining the EU it should leave no one behind. For this, it is key to strengthen its social care structures and services. The EU4SocialCare programme will help provide social care services for vulnerable citizens in 14 municipalities. Municipalities have a crucial role to play in improving the quality of life for their residents and implementing EU standards in all policy areas - we want to help them fulfil this role also through our dedicated programme EU4Municipalities.

In addition, Mrs. Albana Kociu, Minister of Health and Social Protection, expressing her gratitude highlighted: “Challenges related to social exclusion or coping with the consequences of various crises and emergencies drive the need to bring even more attention to Human Capital Development and the Social Protection Agenda as a priority for the EU investment.”

To conclude, Mr. Murat Sahin, UNICEF Representative expressed: “Albania is on its way to European integration. The role of local government is essential to secure inclusive progress, and investment in human capital so no one is left behind. Let every child and family be part of developing a country that is based on values and secures the well-being of its citizens. I thank you all for taking on the challenge.”