Álava consolidates itself as a reference territory in care after the creation of 190 new places and the expansion of services by the Foral Deputation, especially for the elderly and vulnerable groups.
The general deputy, Ramiro González, highlighted that the budget for the Foral Institute of Social Welfare has grown by 20% in the last three years, amounting to an additional 48 million euros, enabling the creation of 190 new places.
The legislature has seen the opening of new centers and services such as Lakondoa (for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism), the Zabalgana day center, and supported housing in Laudio, in addition to new places for people with mental health issues.
Resources for victims of gender-based violence have been strengthened with a second residential center and new reception flats in Aiaraldea. The response for individuals facing social exclusion has also been expanded through the Berrasi center and Housing First-based housing.
The Deputation is also focused on modernizing the existing network, with works in residences like San Antón and Etxebidea, and the progressive implementation of the Gizarea model across all resources.
Over 100 new residential places for the elderly will be added soon, including 44 in the renovated Samaniego residence and another 60 contracted places in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Gorbeialdea, and Aiaraldea.
Regarding community care, the Home Help Service has been strengthened, the capacity of the Etxean Bai program has been increased, and pilot projects for care ecosystems have been launched.
The economic benefit for family care (Pecef) has risen by 27.5%, and aid for personal assistance (PEAP) for dependent individuals has been reinforced.
Efforts have been made to dignify the care sector, resulting in the first collective agreement for private residences in Álava and improved working conditions for sector employees.
Attention to vulnerable groups has been a priority, with resources such as the Tximeletak center (for victims of sexual violence) and the Hegoak center (for psychosocial and socio-legal support).
Future plans include the tender for the new Salburua residence, the transformation of Arabarren, and a new benefit to promote independent living for people with disabilities.
Regarding funding, the general deputy emphasized that the provincial institution bears more than its share, and that the State's contribution is insufficient.
