Slovenia's Ministry of Solidarity-Based Future Allocates €3.14 Million for Enhanced Social Welfare Quality

Significant Investment in Social Welfare Services

Slovenia's Ministry of Solidarity-Based Future has allocated 3.14 million euros to social welfare providers across the country. This substantial funding is designated to co-finance the establishment of a quality and safety treatment model, following a new public call issued under the framework of the Law on temporary measures. The initiative underscores Slovenia's ongoing commitment to enhancing its social welfare system and ensuring high standards of care for its citizens.

The Law on Temporary Measures: ZZUKDPSS

The allocation is made possible by the 'Zakon o začasnih ukrepih za izboljšanje kadrovskih in delovnih pogojev ter zmogljivosti pri izvajalcih socialnovarstvenih storitev in dolgotrajne oskrbe' (Law on temporary measures for improving staffing and working conditions and capacities of social welfare service providers and long-term care), abbreviated as ZZUKDPSS. This crucial legislation came into effect on August 8, 2024, having been published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia on July 24, 2024.

The ZZUKDPSS outlines several key objectives aimed at strengthening the social welfare and long-term care sectors. These include:

• Co-financing the acquisition of national professional qualifications for employees, with up to 3,000 euros available per employee.
• Providing staff scholarships to attract and retain talent.
• Supporting the involvement of volunteers to assist users of social welfare services and alleviate staff workload.
• Implementing training programs for newly employed staff to develop and strengthen their competencies.

These measures are designed to improve the transfer of knowledge among employees, reduce work-related burdens, and ultimately elevate the quality and safety of services in both social welfare and long-term care.

Focus on Quality and Safety Treatment Models

The 3.14 million euro allocation specifically targets the co-financing of models that prioritize quality and safety in treatment. This aligns directly with the ZZUKDPSS's goal of 'raising the quality and safety of services in the field of social welfare and long-term care.' By investing in these models, the Ministry aims to ensure that social welfare providers can offer more effective, secure, and person-centered care. The Ministry of Solidarity-Based Future serves as the 'responsible body' for the implementation of the ZZUKDPSS.

Broader Context of Social Welfare in Slovenia

Slovenia's social protection system is comprehensive, with significant expenditure dedicated to various functions such as old age, sickness and healthcare, and family and children. In 2023, approximately EUR 14.8 billion was spent on social protection schemes, representing close to a quarter of the country's GDP. While the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities traditionally delivers many social welfare services, the newly established Ministry of Solidarity-Based Future plays a vital role, particularly in long-term care and related initiatives. This latest funding initiative is part of a continuous effort to adapt and improve social services, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the population and maintain high standards of care.