The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy is taking unprecedented steps to transform the social care system in Bulgaria. Within a large-scale project, the construction of modern residential complexes has begun, which will provide dignified conditions for people with various special needs.
During a working visit to Shumen, Minister Borislav Gutsanov officially launched the construction of a new social home in the village of Tsarev Brod. The project envisages the construction of three modern buildings with a capacity of 15 people, equipped with modern infrastructure, including yard spaces, rest and rehabilitation zones.
"Today we are making a turning point in social policy," Minister Gutsanov told reporters. "For the first time, the state is taking such large-scale and targeted actions to solve problems in social homes."
Key highlights of the new strategy are the complete transformation of the existing system. So far, 12 illegal social institutions have been closed, with over 400 elderly people removed from extremely unfavorable conditions. In parallel, a large-scale national program for renovation of all 81 state social homes is being implemented.
The financing of this unprecedented initiative is carried out through the National Recovery and Sustainability Plan, which mobilizes nearly 750 million leva. The deadline for complete renovation is set definitively - June 30 of next year.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the ministry is also introducing serious legislative changes. It is envisaged to criminalize illegal activities in social homes and drastically increase sanctions - from the current 7,000 leva to 25-30 thousand leva, depending on the specific violation.
An innovative element in the strategy is the open invitation to municipalities. Currently, 116 sites have been proposed, which will be transformed into modern residential complexes. The ministry plans to build about ten new social homes, while simultaneously encouraging private initiative while adhering to strict state standards.
During his working visit, Minister Gutsanov also visited the Social Rehabilitation Center in Shumen, where he met with people with physical disabilities. The beginning of renovation activities in the Nursing Home "Dr. Stefan Smyadovski" was symbolically launched.
This large-scale social transformation is an unprecedented attempt to modernize the care system for adults and people with special needs in Bulgaria.