Over 300 Polish agreements signed for social development projects worth PLN 10.4 billion

The Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy (MFiPR) has announced that more than 300 agreements have been signed for social development projects funded by the European Funds for Social Development (FERS), totaling PLN 10.4 billion from a pool of PLN 20.9 billion.

This milestone marks an important advancement in the implementation of the European Funds for Social Development program, with the ministry noting that the contracting process has reached its halfway point. “Half of the funds allocated to social development under this program have already been secured through signed contracts for specific projects,” the ministry stated.

The agreements encompass various key areas of investment, including:

• PLN 3.8 billion for the expansion of nursery care,
• PLN 3.3 billion aimed at improving qualifications and acquiring new skills,
• PLN 1.9 billion for support services for excluded individuals and health care,
• PLN 699 million dedicated to removing architectural and communication barriers,
• PLN 105 million for social innovation initiatives.

These signed agreements will facilitate the implementation of numerous projects targeting diverse social groups. The program aims to create over 102,000 new childcare placements in nurseries, children’s clubs, and day-care services, which will receive funding for their operations during the first three years.

Additionally, the initiative will enhance the skills of key professionals, with plans to support 2,900 doctors and 19,540 academic staff members. More than 15,000 adults are expected to benefit from preferential loans for education, which will boost their competitiveness in the job market.

FERS-funded projects will also develop models, standards, and guidelines to enhance accessibility to public places and services. A total of 220 local government units and 60 cultural institutions will improve their facilities to accommodate individuals with special needs.

Furthermore, 250 patient specialist care facilities will increase the availability and standard of services for patients with specific needs, with 900 medical staff set to enhance their competencies.

The ministry highlighted that several thousand employees will participate in training programs to upgrade their skills, contributing to the competitiveness of Polish enterprises. Additionally, 6,900 individuals will receive preferential loans to launch their own businesses.

The ministry expressed optimism regarding the potential impact of these agreements on social development across Poland.

Source: MFiPR and ISBnews