The Local Government Board has approved a collaboration agreement between the Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council and the Spanish Red Cross, with a municipal contribution of 81,375 euros, for the ‘Accompanying from Proximity’ program. This initiative targets elderly individuals facing limitations in their autonomy and lacking family or social support.
The program offers assistance with daily life activities, such as administrative tasks or medical appointments, and includes measures to prevent social isolation, like home support and telephone follow-ups.
“"We want to be especially close to those who have the most difficulty maintaining their autonomy and, at the same time, face situations of loneliness or lack of support. This program allows us to offer close and concrete support, which has a direct impact on their daily lives."
Lucho Royero, Councillor for Social Policies, emphasized that "accompanying is also caring" and highlighted the collaboration with Cruz Roja to reach seniors without a personal support network. "From the municipal social services, we want to be particularly close to those facing challenges in maintaining their autonomy while also dealing with loneliness or lack of support. This program enables us to provide close and specific assistance, directly impacting their daily lives," he stated.
The Red Cross of Álava has collaborated for years with the Department of Social Policies in elder care, identifying needs, referring individuals to social services, promoting volunteering, and undertaking sociosanitary actions, including emergency response for falls at home in coordination with municipal professionals.
The initiative is part of the community work promoted by the City Council to identify and address the social needs of individuals over 75 living alone, particularly those not covered by municipal or provincial social services or telecare, who may require assistance with daily activities.
“"Proximity is fundamental when we talk about care. We want seniors to maintain the highest possible degree of autonomy and remain connected to their environment, knowing they have support when they need it."
