The Sapport Agency is advancing the Government’s investment in relation to personal assistance for people with disabilities. This was said by the Minister for Inclusion, Volunteering and Consumer Rights Julia Farrugia Portelli during an evening that celebrated the 20 years of work of Aġenzija Sapport, the national agency for people with disabilities in Malta. “This will be the biggest investment in the autonomy of people with disabilities which should lead to more people living in the community instead of in institutions,” said Minister Farrugia Portelli and she notes the increase in the allocation of ‘ this measure from €4.2 million this year to €5.2 million next year, as announced in the Budget.
In the evening, the workers who have been with the Agency since the beginning of its journey were recognized. Other recognitions were presented to representatives of all the Agency’s teams based on the unique values that distinguish them, with a show of thanks towards their work and dedication, which together give so much support to people with disabilities. This evening also marked the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, which will be celebrated on Sunday 3 December, a day synonymous with the celebration of the rights of persons with disabilities.
This journey of the Agency to what it is today has seen many developments – both through new services and programs, but also careers in the field of disability and also progress in the inclusion of disabled people in the community and strengthening their rights. Aġenzija Sapport dates back to February 2003, when it offered services in the community, residential services and social work services. Today the Agency has grown to more than 620 employees and 17 service departments and other support teams including family support services, Occupational Therapy services, help for independent living by people with disability on a residential basis as reflected in 11 residences, preparation programs for people with disabilities in preparation to enter the world of work for various schemes with financial aids, European Union projects, administrative services and projects, among others.
Minister Portelli thanked all the workers who served in this Agency. “Each worker in Aġenzija Sapport has an important role in the progress that this country has made and continues to make in favor of the inclusion and independence of persons with disabilities,” stressed the Minister.
In his address to the employees present for this evening, the CEO of Aġenzija Sapport Oliver Scicluna pointed out that while the work in the field of disability is a challenge, this is indispensable work and thanks for the work of all the employees and volunteers with their professional and dedicated commitment, deliver a service with empathy, give a voice to the disabled and be a source of vital guidance for a better quality of life with dignity and independent living.
Photos: MIVC/DOI
