Nicosia: Cyprus is advancing with a series of projects aimed at enhancing social inclusion and improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities, as part of the Cohesion Policy Programme 'THALEIA 2021-2027.' The initiative, backed by a total budget of £61.5 million with co-financing from the European Union, aims to create a comprehensive framework of interventions.
According to Cyprus News Agency, these projects support the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and align with the National Disability Strategy 2024-2028 and the National Action Plan. These have been crafted in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The primary goal is to foster equal opportunities, combat discrimination and social exclusion, and ensure active participation of persons with disabilities in both social and economic spheres.
In terms of employment, the Department of Labour is spearheading the 'Incentive Scheme for the Employment of Persons with Disabilities.' This scheme has a total budget of £2 million for 2021-2027 and offers incentives to employers to hire unemployed persons with disabilities. The grants cover part of the wage cost for 24 months, intending to boost employment rates and decrease unemployment among persons with disabilities.
Simultaneously, the Department for Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities is implementing the New Disability Assessment System with a budget of £10.5 million. This system is grounded in the standards of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) of the World Health Organization, providing a comprehensive and individualized assessment of the needs and abilities of persons with disabilities.
Additionally, a budget of £22 million is allocated to promote the creation of an integrated network of community-based independent living structures and services.
A further £10 million is dedicated to the 'New Network of Social Inclusion Services for Persons with Disabilities.' This project is being executed by the Department for Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with the Cyprus Confederation of Organisations of the Disabled (KYSOA).
Moreover, the Cyprus Paraplegics Organisation is implementing the 'Provision of Home Care Services to Persons with Disabilities' project, with a budget of £11 million. This project aims to promote equal opportunities and reduce social exclusion for persons with disabilities.
The 'Aktida' Family Intervention and Support Centre for Autism is a model center operating under the Department for Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, with a funding of £6 million. It offers early intervention and comprehensive support services to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the nation.