Tenerife Council Pledges Continuous Disability Inclusion

The Tenerife Island Council recently marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The UN General Assembly established this day in 1992 to raise awareness about the rights and needs of people with disabilities. This annual event not only highlights the ongoing challenges but also stresses the importance of ensuring equal opportunities and accessibility in all aspects of life. The Council believes that inclusion is a continuous effort, not just a one-day celebration, and reaffirms its dedication to building a more just, equal, and inclusive society.

Águeda Fumero, the Minister of Social Action, spoke about Sinpromi (the Island Society for the Promotion of Persons with Disabilities). She praised its leading role in making everything accessible to everyone. Sinpromi is crucial for helping people with disabilities live independently, find jobs, and improve access to different places. These are all essential for them to live on their own and fully participate in the island's social, cultural, and work life. The Minister highlighted that Sinpromi's work with both public and private organizations has made significant strides towards a more inclusive society, offering better chances for all citizens to develop and get involved.

Over the past term, the Council has significantly improved its resources and services for people with disabilities who need support. This effort has created a high-quality care model, where help is specifically tailored to each person's real needs. The strategy involves specialized and personalized services, leading to more precise and effective support that boosts users' independence and overall well-being.

The Council's main goal is to ensure every person receives the right care to develop independently, helping them fully integrate into society and actively participate in community life. This approach not only benefits people with disabilities but also helps create a more connected and supportive society for all.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a time to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that still exist. According to Águeda Fumero, building a truly inclusive society requires values such as solidarity, respect, and empathy. These are fundamental to ensuring that all people, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the same rights and opportunities.

The Tenerife Island Council continues to champion policies that remove barriers and encourage all citizens to participate. They firmly believe that disability should not hinder anyone's personal, professional, or social growth. From making public spaces more accessible to promoting employment and training programs, the Council is striving to make Tenerife a leading example of real and lasting inclusion, building an environment where every person can reach their full potential, day by day.