– Thanks to the Corps and our joint efforts, older people will be safer – says Minister of Family and Social Policy Marlena Maląg. The Ministry of Family and Social Policy coordinates the Corps’ activities.
– Today, we are responsible for one another, and complying with restrictions is an expression of social solidarity. We should show particular concern for older people, who are most at risk. It is precisely for this purpose that we are launching the Solidarity Support Corps for Seniors – adds M. Maląg. The Ministry of Family and Social Policy coordinates the Corps’ activities.
22 505 11 11 – a dedicated helpline for seniors
As part of the initiative, a dedicated helpline for seniors will be launched. By calling the phone number, older people will be able to ask for help with tasks requiring them to leave home, which have been made more difficult by the ongoing pandemic. This includes, among other things, grocery shopping and the delivery of hygiene products.
The person receiving the call will pass the contact number of the senior needing support to the social welfare centre in the relevant municipality. A centre employee will contact the senior, verify the request and establish all the details related to providing assistance. Volunteers will deliver the necessary products to older people. The senior will cover the cost of the purchases.
– The assistance is intended for people over 70. In special cases, younger seniors will also receive support – assures Minister of Family and Social Policy Marlena Maląg.
www.wspierajseniora.pl – a website for volunteers
The task will be carried out by municipalities in cooperation with non-governmental organisations and volunteers. The latter play an important role in the Corps’ plans. Volunteers will deliver shopping to seniors, help with household duties and simply talk to older people.
People who want to help seniors will be able to register online by completing a questionnaire on www.wspierajseniora.pl, or in person by reporting to their local social welfare centre.
– The municipality’s task will be to keep a register of seniors who have decided to stay at home and need support from volunteers. The Voluntary Fire Service, the Territorial Defence Forces and scouts will also take part in providing assistance – lists Minister Maląg.
A task for municipalities, a government grant
Municipalities will be able to apply for funding from the state budget to organise and provide the support service.
Municipalities will be able to use the funds, among other things, to employ new staff to carry out the task, award task-related allowances, commission the service to non-governmental organisations or purchase it from private entities.