Help in Spain – plan ahead

Key message from social services and charities during ConeXiones event

How do social services work in the Valencia region? What help is really out there for British nationals? These are two of the questions that Spanish social workers and English speaking associations tried to answer in the “ConeXiones Social” event that was held last week in Alicante.

During the event, the social services teams spoke about the services on offer, including home help, meals on wheels and panic alarms for vulnerable people who live on their own. They stressed how important it is that people keep their documentation up to date – having a padrón, “residencia” passport and proof of income is essential for accessing almost all social services support.

They also explained the importance of planning ahead, as there is often a waiting list before people can access social services support. They said that having the funds to be able to cover that gap privately can be essential.

The English speaking welfare associations who attended also had the opportunity to find out about these services and how to access them as well as explaining to the social services what they can do. The English speaking associations illustrated how much help they can offer, ranging from hospital visits to equipment loan and nursing care.

The British Consul, Paul Rodwell, attended the event and opened by explaining briefly what the Consulate’s role is in supporting British nationals and highlighting the importance of knowing what help is out there from local town halls and charities.

After the event he said “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the social services departments and English speaking associations who attended today and took the time to present their services. As always, I was impressed by how much support is available, but realise that this may not always be enough.  As such, I urge British nationals to think about any possible care needs they may have in the future and make plans. It’s also really important for people to make sure they are properly registered with the Spanish authorities and are familiar with the services their town hall can offer”.  

Charities who attended the event were ACASA, RBL, Age Concern, MABS, HELP Marina Alta, HELP Vega Baja, HELP Benidorm, RAFA Costa Blanca, RAFA Costa Blanca North, Help at Home Costa Blanca and Samaritans in Spain.