Cyprus is rolling out a €31 million reform to modernise its Social Welfare Services, with a focus on strengthening child protection, supporting vulnerable groups and improving the quality and speed of public services.
Speaking on Wednesday, Social Welfare Services Director Maria Kyratzi described the initiative as the first comprehensive overhaul of the country’s welfare system.
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“This reform is designed to improve the functioning of the Social Welfare Services while substantially upgrading Cyprus’ social protection system, with social cohesion, equal opportunities and a decent quality of life for all citizens at its core,” she said.
The project is being implemented under the THALIA 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy Programme and is co-financed by the European Union.
Stronger Child Protection And Local Support
The reform will modernise the organisation’s structures, procedures and intervention mechanisms to create a more efficient and people-centred welfare system.
Social Welfare Services currently manage more than 40 programmes and employ over 500 professionals. According to the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare, rising demand and increasingly complex cases, particularly those involving children under state guardianship, have made the overhaul necessary.
A key measure is the creation of multidisciplinary teams at central and district level to improve the management of complex cases and strengthen cooperation between public agencies. The reform will also introduce escort and mentoring services, together with additional specialist support for vulnerable children.
Since May 2026, the Deputy Ministry has been working with the ministries of education, justice and health on a national child protection strategy and action plan, due to be completed by the end of 2029.
Digital Upgrade
Following a successful pilot phase, the Neighbourhood Social Worker programme will be expanded nationwide in cooperation with municipalities and community clusters, bringing services closer to local communities and strengthening early intervention.
The reform also includes the introduction of a new digital information system to improve efficiency and modernise the delivery of social welfare services.
