The European Union (EU), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Ukraine in partnership with the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine and the NGO “Social Synergy” held an all-Ukrainian training and practical conference “Supported Living as a Path to Integration: Experience, Challenges and Development Prospects in Ukraine” in Chernivtsi. The purpose of the event was to discuss the current status and determine the next steps in the development of social services for assisted living, which provides the basis for true social equality of citizens.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives of government agencies, international partners, NGOs and experts, to lay a solid foundation for the development of services that support people with intellectual, mental and physical disabilities.

The conference participants presented the results of research on the needs of future service recipients in Chernivtsi and Chernihiv regions. They also discussed models of supported living, including houses and apartments, which are considered as an alternative to boarding schools, and developed proposals for improving the mechanisms for their financing at the community level. Particular attention was paid to the issues of social adaptation and integration of people with disabilities, as well as the exchange of experience between regions on the implementation of innovative models of supported living.

In her welcoming remarks, Oksana Zholnovych, Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine, emphasized the urgent need to develop social services for people with disabilities and the elderly.

“The social service of assisted living is a modern approach that allows the elderly and people with disabilities to live with dignity and independence in their cities and communities. The state budget for the next year includes funding for assisted living and care in small houses where these people can live, and therefore it is extremely important for us to cooperate with organizations that can provide this service, by developing and scaling it up. Together, in particular with international partners, we can create an effective support system that will become the basis for social integration and protection of the rights of people who need it most,” said Oksana Zholnovych.

Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, emphasized the key role of supporting social projects aimed at improving living conditions and strengthening the well-being of communities.

“The European Union continues to support efforts to create an inclusive environment and improve the quality of social services. Our work is focused on implementing lasting and sustainable changes that not only improve people's daily lives, but also provide communities with opportunities for future development,” said Stefan Schleuning.

UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine Jaco Cilliers emphasized the crucial importance of strengthening the capacity of communities to effectively address social challenges. “Supported living opens up new horizons for social adaptation and integration of people with disabilities and older people. Together with our partners, we strive to create the conditions under which communities can implement innovative, inclusive and sustainable models of social services, ensuring that no one is left behind and everyone can succeed,” said Jaco Cilliers.

The conference concluded with the adoption of a Resolution containing practical recommendations for authorities, communities and international partners on the implementation of modern approaches in the field of assisted living.

Background information

Assisted living is a comprehensive approach to ensuring a comfortable and safe life for older people and people with disabilities. It includes providing a place to live, supporting the development of independent living skills, organizing medical care, assisting with housekeeping and creating conditions for daily living. In addition, the service is aimed at representing the interests of service recipients, assisting them in interacting with social services and obtaining legal support, as well as involving them in active community life.