The Government of the Azores, through the Terceira Island Housing Services, has allocated two homes in the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo to enhance the Independence of people with mental health and addiction problems, who will benefit from specialised technical support, according to the protocols signed today between the Regional Directorate for Housing and the São Rafael and Espírito Santo Mental Institutions.
 
At the ceremony for the signing of protocols with these two institutions, the Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity pointed out the Government "identified the need to promote the autonomy [through housing] of men and women who have difficulties in their independence process" due to mental disease or addictive behaviours.
 
In this context, Andreia Cardoso added that the Regional Directorate for Housing has moved forward with the construction of two homes located in urban developments, which are "perfectly integrated in the community"; one is located in São Bento and another in Terra Chã.
 
In his speech at the ceremony, which also was attended by the Regional Secretary for Health, the Secretary for Social Solidarity stated that the houses were built "with several adaptations, namely single rooms and small kitchenettes" so that "each person that will occupy these spaces may effectively promote their autonomy.”
 
However, Andreia Cardoso stressed that "providing these spaces is not enough, technical support is crucial." In this context, she added that the Government has searched for partnerships that resulted in the signing of protocols with both mental institutions on Terceira Island.
 
The stay in these homes is not final and each case will be assessed continuously in order to achieve the full autonomy of the patients when there are the necessary conditions.