Ukraine has approved the implementation of a pilot project that provides for state funding of the social component of early intervention services. The initiative was introduced at the suggestion of the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine. The new approach is expected to involve more than 100 communities in providing this service, significantly expanding its availability.
Read also: Ukrzaliznytsia launches “Traveller’s Passport” for children
The service is aimed at children from birth to four years of age who have developmental disorders or are at risk of developing them. The main goal is to identify developmental difficulties as early as possible, support families and help children adapt to their social environment.
Currently, there are over 70 early intervention teams working in Ukraine. According to the new project, each team will be able to support about 30 families, which will allow them to reach up to 3,300 families per year. Assistance will be provided directly in the child’s familiar environment — at home, on playgrounds or in public spaces.
The early intervention team consists of three specialists: a social worker, a psychologist, and an occupational therapist or physical therapist. They work not only with the child but also with the parents — developing parenting skills, helping to organise a support network, adapting the environment, and preparing the child for school.
Providers will receive monthly payments for the service from the state budget. The rate is 115,154 hryvnia per team per month. One provider may have several teams working in neighbouring communities, provided that the distance to the place of service provision does not exceed 60 km.
In order to use the service, parents or legal representatives of the child must submit a corresponding application to the executive body of local self-government. The referral is provided by a medical institution or an inclusive resource centre.
Read also: Over 400 evacuated children return to Ukraine
