A center for social adaptation for displaced persons has been opened in Ukraine.

The Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, together with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), has opened a renovated building of the sanatorium 'Slava' in Poltava region.

After the renovation and modernization, the 'Slava' sanatorium now provides comfortable living conditions and social services for the elderly, people with disabilities, and internally displaced persons who have become victims of Russia's war against Ukraine.

The reconstruction of the 'Slava' sanatorium is part of a pilot program aimed at assisting social workers and the community in adapting internally displaced persons and supporting their recovery of independent living after relocation. This aligns with the strategy for de-institutionalization of care for persons with disabilities and the elderly. The program is implemented by the Ministry of Social Policy in collaboration with UNHCR and the organization 'Right to Protection'.

'The transformation of the 'Slava' sanatorium is not only about improving living conditions, but also about restoring dignity, hope, and opportunities for those who have been forced to leave their homes due to the war. By providing comfortable conditions and individualized social support, we help displaced persons recover their lives and integrate into society. We also actively cooperate with the Ministry of Social Policy and local authorities to ensure that this experience strengthens social protection across the country and benefits many people,' said UNHCR Representative in Ukraine Karolina Lindholm Billing.

At the moment, the 'Slava' sanatorium provides three main social services:

• shelter for internally displaced persons until they find long-term housing;
• assisted living for those in need of help in daily life (including the elderly and people with disabilities);
• social adaptation for a gradual transition to independent living.

The opening of the renovated building of the 'Slava' sanatorium in Poltava region is an important step in improving the living and social conditions for the elderly, people with disabilities, and internally displaced persons. It is also part of a program aimed at supporting social workers and the community in the adaptation process of internally displaced persons and restoring their independent living. The reconstruction of the 'Slava' sanatorium is an example of successful cooperation between the Ministry of Social Policy, UNHCR, and the organization 'Right to Protection'. This project not only improves living conditions but also gives people hope, dignity, and the opportunity to return to normal life in society. Collaborative work with local authorities allows for sharing this experience and improving the social protection system throughout the country, enabling many people to receive the necessary support and assistance.