The looming challenge of accreditation of social centres
The Department of Social Rights is carrying out a crucial accreditation process that will end on August 5. This move seeks to ensure that facilities dedicated to social services meet the essential requirements to continue operating. However, according to estimates, up to 20% of nursing homes may not achieve this accreditation, which could aggravate the already complicated situation of waiting lists in the sector.
Mixed perspectives on the accreditation process
Carlos Campuzano, acting Minister for Social Rights, stressed the need to prioritise the general interest, although he recognises the concern generated by the fact that some residences do not meet standards. In contrast, entities such as the Sindicatura de Greuges and various associations of professionals in the sector warn of the possible legal insecurities that this procedure entails. Andrés Rueda, president of the Catalan Professional Association of Directors of Centres and Services for Dependency Care, expresses his alarm, pointing out that many people could be left without care options.
The context of the regulations and their implications
The root of this situation goes back to a decree published during the pandemic, which established new quality parameters for care centers. To be accredited, centers must demonstrate minimum experience in the sector, have organizational protocols in place, and comply with a 2015 regulation on the adequacy of facilities. Rueda highlighted that most of the centers were built before this decree and do not meet the new requirements, which can pose a significant challenge.
Tight times and expectations of change
Furthermore, it has been pointed out that the time granted to adapt to these provisions has been insufficient. Jordi Sánchez of the Sindicatura de Greuges expresses his surprise at the haste of the process, given that it had originally been scheduled to conclude in October 2025. However, Campuzano argued that the lack of knowledge about the state of residential places and the quality of the service provided could not continue.
Implications for future residents
As the debate over accreditation intensifies, the biggest concern is the impact this will have on waiting lists for those seeking a place in care homes. Sánchez warned of the nebulous situation that non-accredited collaborating entities will face, coupled with the uncertainty of future residents about their ability to access adequate care. The key question has become: what will be the fate of those who await an opportunity to enter a care home and find themselves trapped in this limbo situation?