The Catalan government has announced a new plan to reduce waiting lists for dependency aid, with President Salvador Illa making the announcement from Món Sant Benet in Central Catalonia. The initiative aims to cut the current average wait time of 397 days for individuals seeking dependency support, a period significantly longer than the six months mandated by law.
This delay affects thousands of people across Catalonia, according to officials. The new plan focuses on streamlining the process, particularly for urgent cases, and involves a reform of the assessment model. It will also require joint work between the Ministry of Social Rights and the Ministry of Health.
Reforming the Assessment Model
The current system sees individuals waiting over a year to have their right to benefits recognised. The government's proposal seeks to address this by reforming how dependency assessments are carried out. This change is designed to make the process more efficient and responsive to the needs of applicants.
President Illa revealed the plan during the government's fourth legislative conference, held at Món Sant Benet. These conferences are used to set the direction for the coming months of the administration. The focus on dependency aid highlights a commitment to improving social services and ensuring timely support for vulnerable residents.
Moving forward, the government will work to implement these reforms. The collaboration between the two ministries is seen as critical to the plan's success, ensuring both social and health aspects of dependency are addressed effectively. Further details on the specific timelines for implementation are expected in the coming weeks.
