Deputy welfare minister inspects care homes during heatwave in Cyprus

Deputy Welfare Minister of Cyprus, Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina, conducted on-site inspections of various care homes on Tuesday, August 3, 2026. The visits were launched to verify that care home operators are strictly adhering to safety guidance issued by social services last month. The primary focus of these inspections was to ensure that air conditioning and ventilation systems are fully operational, providing a safe and comfortable environment for elderly residents during the ongoing heatwave.

During the inspections, Hadjistefanou-Papaellina assessed the facilities' daily operations and engaged directly with management, staff, and residents. The minister emphasized that protecting the dignity, safety, and quality of life of the elderly is a top priority for the deputy ministry. She noted that these checks, performed on a sample basis, represent a form of preventive and early intervention to ensure that institutional standards are maintained under extreme weather conditions.

These measures follow written instructions disseminated to care providers in July regarding the necessary preparations for high-temperature events. The deputy ministry continues to monitor the situation, asserting that constant oversight is essential to maintain acceptable standards of care across the island's shelters.