Italian municipalities granted three years to train professional educators

A technical committee has approved a modification to the operating manual for the authorization of residential and semi-residential services for minors. This change extends the deadline for meeting professional educator qualification requirements from six months to three years.

Social Policy Assessor Roberto Santangelo announced the decision following meetings with trade union representatives and sector operators. The extension addresses concerns raised by municipalities regarding the practical difficulties of the previous six-month limit, which officials warned could have compromised local services for minors.

The three-year period is intended to align with the triennial verification of requirements stipulated by regulations. This adjustment allows staff to complete the necessary training paths to meet national standards and provides managing entities with sufficient time for organizational adjustments.