La Laguna Honored for Outstanding Social Services Management

This week, La Laguna’s City Council proudly received a prestigious award recognizing its unwavering commitment to transparency and the enhancement of social services within the community. This accolade not only highlights the city’s dedication but also serves as a testament to the effective management of social welfare programs aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents.

Celebrating Commitment to Social Welfare

The City Council of La Laguna, represented by the Department of Social Welfare and Quality of Life, took part in the 32nd National Congress organized by the State Association of Directors and Managers of Social Services in Spain. This congress is a significant event that brings together local administrations to exchange best practices and innovative approaches in social service management.

During this esteemed congress, La Laguna was honored for its continuous efforts to enhance social services while maintaining a high level of transparency. Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez expressed his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the critical importance of defending the rights of vulnerable groups within the community. He articulated that the City Council’s strategy is rooted in active listening and collaboration with various entities dedicated to social welfare, ensuring that the voices of those in need are heard and addressed.

Furthermore, María Cruz, the Councillor for Social Welfare, praised the dedication of the technical team throughout the year. She highlighted that their relentless efforts guarantee that social policies and programs effectively reach those who require assistance, particularly in addressing challenges related to resource scarcity and mobility issues. This commitment to service exemplifies the city’s proactive stance in tackling social challenges.

Recognition for Innovative Practices

The award presented to La Laguna was accepted by Rosana García Gaviño, the Director of the Social Services Area. This accolade was not the only recognition received during the event; the City Council also earned an award for its presentation in the ‘Presentation of Good Practices in Services’ category. The project, titled ‘Unified Procedure for Intervention in Cases of Child Neglect in the Childhood and Family Unit of San Cristóbal de La Laguna,’ showcased three exemplary practices aimed at improving child welfare and ensuring that children receive the support they need.

La Laguna’s commitment to social policies has garnered attention through various national and international awards in recent years. Notably, the municipality was honored with the Access City Award 2024 from the European Union, a significant recognition for its efforts in enhancing accessibility and support for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the CERMI Award 2022, granted by the Spanish Committee of Representatives of Persons with Disabilities, underscores the city’s dedication to inclusive practices that promote equality and accessibility for all residents.

Key Themes of the National Congress

The discussions at the 32nd National Congress revolved around the rights of children and adolescents to access public services. In light of the emerging forms of violence against youth, particularly through digital platforms, the congress provided a crucial forum for municipalities to evaluate current measures and identify necessary improvements in service management. This focus on youth welfare reflects a growing awareness of the challenges faced by younger generations in today’s society.

Key topics included the implications of Organic Law 8/21, the challenges encountered by migrant minors, and the varying responses of public systems across autonomous communities. The congress also took time to reflect on the evolution of the host association over its 31 years, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in the delivery of social services to meet the changing needs of the population.

Understanding the State Association’s Role

The State Association of Directors and Managers of Social Services was established in 1994 to address the increasing demands for modernization, effectiveness, and quality in social services. This organization plays a vital role in advocating for essential social rights, ensuring that access to crucial services is maintained and improved. By fostering collaboration among local administrations, the association aims to enhance the overall quality of social services across Spain.

Key points

• La Laguna’s City Council received an award for transparency and improvement in social services.
• The recognition was presented at the 32nd National Congress of the State Association of Directors and Managers of Social Services.
• Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez highlighted the importance of defending vulnerable groups’ rights.
• La Laguna also received an award for a project addressing child neglect.
• The municipality has won several national and international awards for its social policies.
• The congress focused on children’s rights and the impact of new forms of violence.
• The State Association was founded in 1994 to enhance social service quality.