started · updated
Greece launches permanent Personal Assistant program for people with disabilities
Greece has officially launched the digital application platform for the Personal Assistant program for people with disabilities, transitioning the initiative from a pilot phase to a permanent national institution. The program, announced by Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Domna Michailidou, aims to promote independent living by providing customized support for daily activities, work, and education.
Eligible applicants must be between 16 and 67 years old (with exceptions up to 75) and possess a disability rating of at least 67%. Monthly financial assistance can reach up to 1,939 euros. Income eligibility is tiered, starting at 35,000 euros for single-person households and increasing based on the number of family members.
A University of Piraeus study regarding the pilot program indicated high success rates, with 97% of beneficiaries reporting improved daily functioning and 94% reporting an improved quality of life. To address staffing shortages in remote areas, such as mountainous or island municipalities with populations under 5,000, the program now allows first-degree relatives to serve as assistants. Additionally, hourly wages for assistants have been increased up to 7 euros to encourage more people to join the official registry.
Entities
Domna Michailidou · Greece · Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family · University of Piraeus
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Hourly wages for assistants have been increased up to 7 euros to attract more registered staff. www.xtypos.gr
- [● 3 SOURCES] Monthly financial assistance can reach up to 1,939 euros depending on individual needs. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr · www.rethemnosnews.gr
- [DISPUTED] The digital platform for new applications opened on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr · www.rethemnosnews.gr
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Personal Assistant program is being established as a permanent national institution following a successful pilot phase. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr · www.rethemnosnews.gr
- [● 3 SOURCES] Applicants must have a disability percentage of at least 67%. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr · www.rethemnosnews.gr
- [● 3 SOURCES] Income limits for single-person households start at 35,000 euros annually. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr · www.rethemnosnews.gr
- [● 2 SOURCES] A University of Piraeus study found that 97% of pilot beneficiaries reported improved daily functioning. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr
- [● 2 SOURCES] In mountainous and island municipalities with fewer than 5,000 residents, first-degree relatives can now provide care. www.xtypos.gr · healthmag.gr