The Ministry for Social Policy and Children’s Rights continued to discuss the Social Plan for Families with all stakeholders involved, including professionals from the social, education, health and labour sectors, among others.
As part of this exercise, a meeting was held with stakeholders to explore further ideas and priorities that could boost Maltese and Gozitan families. These discussions are being held to reflect the needs and aspirations of families across all sectors.
During this meeting, the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, spoke about the importance of renewing and understanding today’s social realities. This is especially true in the realities that affect families, such as work-family balance, maternal and paternal leave, as well as situations involving vulnerable families that require assistance.
Director General within the Ministry, Alexia Vella, spoke about the four main priorities of the Plan, with the first being linked to Social Justice for Families in order to strengthen support and adequate services to families in disadvantaged situations, where families with members who have specific needs are given additional support.
She went on to explain that another priority is to foster a positive family environment that helps individuals better manage life’s stresses through constant comfort, guidance and support. Strengthening knowledge and skills is another instrumental area so that all families have access to equal opportunities. This is while a collective effort is being made to improve Malta’s fertility rate, with respect for the various socio-economic factors that influence family planning.
This strategy will seek to promote well-being, while meeting current and future challenges, through a plan that establishes a solid foundation for fostering stronger communities.
Photo: MSPC
