Respite Care Program Launches in Poland and Portugal

Poland's Goleniów County has opened applications for the 2026 edition of the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy's "Opieka wytchnieniowa" (Respite Care) program for local government units. Funded by the Solidarity Fund, the scheme offers temporary, 24‑hour residential care for up to 14 days to children aged 2‑16 with a disability certificate or adults with a severe disability certificate. Applications are accepted from 1 May to 15 November 2026 at the Hospital Centre in Goleniów, with a set of required forms and supporting documents.

In Portugal, the municipal social assistance centre in Wola Krzysztoporska (GOPS) has begun the same program for the first time in the municipality. Eight caregivers have been hired to support eight people with various disabilities, providing respite care either in the beneficiary’s home or at a designated location. The centre reports strong local interest and emphasizes that the service gives families much‑needed time for rest, personal matters and improved well‑being.