EmporTEA Aims to Make Public Spaces More Inclusive
The Alt Empordà region is strengthening its role as a leader in inclusion for people with autism through EmporTEA, a new project led by the Associació TEA Alt Empordà and Reale Figueres. The initiative seeks to create a network of shops, services and public spaces that are more accessible, understandable and welcoming for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (TEA) and other sensory needs. This move follows existing efforts in the region to support families and individuals affected by autism, including therapeutic and educational programmes.
Dog-Assisted Therapy Piloted in L'Escala
In June 2026, L'Escala launched a pilot programme for dog-assisted therapy for children and adolescents with TEA, developed by the Associació TEA Alt Empordà in collaboration with the town council and CTAC Girona. A free introductory session was held on 25 June at the Savelm civic centre, followed by five weekly sessions throughout July on 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. The pilot is offered at a reduced rate of €17 per month to encourage family participation, with the aim of assessing long-term viability from September. The standard monthly cost of the therapy is €85, though members of the association may access it for between €25 and €40.
We want to respond to specific needs and move towards a more inclusive municipality with better quality of life.
Clàudia de Cruz, L'Escala’s councillor for Social Action, said the project reflects the town’s commitment to inclusivity. She noted that previous initiatives have already advanced accessibility in the community. The therapy, known as the GOS-TEA project, began in 2022 and currently supports 20 children and their families. Sessions take place every Monday afternoon in Vilatenim, Figueres. The programme focuses on improving communication, emotional regulation, social relationships and reducing disruptive or escape behaviours. According to the association, dog-assisted interventions help increase social interaction, reduce disruptive behaviours, encourage play and improve communication in people with autism. The GOS-TEA project is funded by the Figueres and Llançà town councils and the Fundació Obra Social La Caixa.
Broader Support Network for Families
Beyond therapy, the Associació TEA Alt Empordà offers several other services. These include SOFT, a family guidance service for autism, and educational programmes using Minecraft to develop social skills. A virtual reality project has also been implemented to support social development in young people with autism. In May 2024, the association hosted a benefit dinner and talk in Llançà to support families. The Dalí Museum in Figueres has also promoted inclusive cultural activities, running creative workshops for children with TEA. Families interested in the GOS-TEA pilot in L'Escala can register via the official project page.
Reported by Redacció, per adminteaae, Sònia Fuentes, horanova.cat, catalan.news, teacompanyem.cat, L'Empordà.
