To improve the quality of services offered in Residential Care Institutions (RCIs), also known as shelters, in order to ensure the protection and welfare of children while providing NGOs with the necessary tools and means. To this end, the National Social Inclusion Foundation (NSIF) is proposing a national program for “Residential Care Institutions for the Protection and Welfare of Children”, which it presented to the 14 NGOs concerned during a discussion meeting held at NSIF headquarters last week. This program is also in line with the United Nations’ recommendations for the deinstitutionalization of RCIs in favor of small residential facilities, with no more than 15 residents.
It should be noted that the budget allocated by the Foundation for the financial support of these NGOs in their operations has increased from Rs 105 million to Rs 200 million for the fiscal year 2022-2023. To date, there are some 600 children who are victims of neglect and violence, who are taken care of by the 18 Residential Care Institutions, managed by the NGOs and the State.
The national program lays the groundwork for the improvement, professionalization and harmonization of the services offered and also for a better management of the RCIs. “We have noticed a difference in the level and quality of services offered by the different RCIs. The national program, which includes a well-established service framework and a series of guidelines based on international practices and adapted to the local context, will allow for the harmonization of services in the reception centers. The framework of services is also a tool that will help NGOs improve their financial and administrative management, as well as guide and accompany them in their mission to support child victims of neglect and abuse. It is important that these children can be followed by professionals and have access to activities that contribute to their well-being and holistic development,” explains Vishal Ragoobur, Research and Development
This program is also in line with the United Nations’ recommendations to encourage more small residential structures, with no more than 15 residents. The objective is to create a more family-friendly environment for children while offering them the best possible support and follow-up to promote their holistic development. A deinstitutionalization of the RICs is thus expected in the long term. NSIF will accompany the NGOs in this deinstitutionalization process.
Other working meetings are planned between NSIF, the NGOs concerned and the Ministry of Gender and Family Welfare as part of the implementation of this national program for “Residential Care Institutions for the Protection and Welfare of Children”.
