Azores with specific legal framework for residential care - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social

During the February plenary session of the Regional Legislative Assembly, the Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, highlighted the importance of the proposed Regional Legislative Decree adapting the residential care implementation scheme, provided for in Decree-Law No. 164/2019 of 25 October, to the Region.

The government official stressed that this initiative fills a legal void that has existed since 2019, ensuring the necessary legal framework for a matter considered essential in promoting and protecting the rights of vulnerable children and young people.

“There are currently 39 residential care homes in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, covering about 320 children, including 57 aged between zero and six. It was essential to ensure the formal implementation of this scheme in the Region,” stated Mónica Seidi.

The Regional Secretary pointed out that, although social responses are in place, the regional implementation scheme provided for in national legislation had never been approved, thereby making its adaptation to the Azorean context urgent. The legislation now approved defines this framework, with the respective regulations expected to be drawn up within 90 days of its publication.

Furthermore, Mónica Seidi announced that 51 new vacancies will be created for people with disabilities this year through the opening of new residential homes, namely by charities such as the Santa Casa da Misericórdia da Lagoa and Santa Casa da Misericórdia da Maia, and on the island of Santa Maria, alleviating the pressure currently felt in residential care homes.

"We are making progress. This is a sensitive issue that requires responsibility, planning and commitment. We cannot solve everything at once, but we are fully committed to improving responses and ensuring the effective protection of our children and young people," stated the Regional Secretary.

With this initiative, the Azorean Government reiterates its commitment to promoting the rights of children and young people, ensuring more appropriate, structured and legally compliant responses in the Autonomous Region of the Azores.