Advocacy group calls for relocation of disabled persons from nursing homes

The Cyprus Confederation of Organizations of the Disabled (KYSOAA) has issued a formal call for the urgent relocation of individuals with mental, physical, and neurodevelopmental disabilities currently residing in nursing homes. The organization asserts that these environments are inherently unsuitable for the specific needs of disabled persons, marking a significant push to end the historical practice of placing such individuals in elderly care facilities.

This demand follows recent discussions within the parliamentary Committee on Labor and a report from the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights. KYSOAA emphasizes that the period of silent acceptance regarding this housing crisis has ended, necessitating immediate action from the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. To achieve this, the confederation is calling for coordinated efforts between mental health services and state bodies, specifically highlighting the Ministry of Finance's obligation to secure funding for independent living arrangements. The goal is to ensure that every individual receives personalized care tailored to their specific disability.

Currently, the organization is awaiting official results from the ongoing actions taken by the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. Future progress will depend on inter-ministerial cooperation to establish appropriate infrastructure and the necessary financial backing to support independent living for those currently displaced.