The Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights is at an advanced stage of launching an After-Care Policy for young people who have left children's residential care. This framework is intended to provide peace of mind, stability, and a future full of opportunities for those young people who, for various reasons, spent their childhood in alternative care.
This was announced by the Minister for Social Policy and Children's Rights, Michael Falzon, during the signing of an agreement with the Salesians, who manage two children's residential homes.
Minister Falzon explained that this agreement is just one of 37 social agreements the Ministry has within the community. He noted that the Government is close to launching an after-care policy built on consultation with various stakeholders, as well as on the lived experiences of the children themselves.
"We are speaking about the concept of after-care and mentoring, because we truly believe in it. This Ministry has been working closely with the Salesians for the past six years. Not only do we have agreements with NGOs on after-care, but we are also ensuring that there is a policy that covers the continuation of support for those children who, for whatever reason, cannot continue living with their biological parents," Minister Falzon stated.
On his part, the President of the National Federation Dun Bosco, Bryan Magro, said that children and adolescents who enter these residences have often gone through trauma and difficult experiences that leave a lasting impact. As a result, they are provided with assistance and mentoring to help them become stronger, regain stability, achieve academic progress, and eventually leave the residences equipped to form their own families and contribute positively to society.
This agreement marks the third social agreement with the National Federation Dun Bosco, which runs two residential homes. These agreements provide stability and reassurance for the management of the two residences: the Marvelli residence in Raħal Ġdid and the Carlo Gastini residence in Valletta.