The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity revealed in Praia da Vitória that the Government of the Azores will reinforce the training of technicians working in Parental Education in January and July 2017, thus promoting "a more qualified intervention towards positive parenting as well as the involvement and responsibility of families."
"This investment is cherished by the Regional Government and technicians that promoted it among families," Andreia Cardoso said, recalling that Parental Education has already covered 659 parents and other parental figures, and 635 children.
Andreia Cardoso spoke on behalf of the President of the Government at the opening session of the 1st Regional Forum: Open Letter to Prevention. She noted that "the need for proactive intervention to prevention is regarded by the Azorean Government as crucial not only to prevent future problems, reducing risk factors, but also to increase protective factors."
In her speech, the Regional Secretary expressed the commitment of the Azorean Government in promoting structural and multidisciplinary approaches, adding that, during the current year, Parental Education Program entered a new phase. In this regard, she mentioned the collaboration with the Regional Directorate for Education to extend this programme to a school context. So far, three pilot experiences have taken place on the islands of S. Miguel and Faial and there are plans to extend it to more schools.
"With Parental Education, all Azorean parents will have access to quality training that will encourage and support them throughout the various stages of parenting," said the government official.
As for prevention, Andreia Cardoso defended that "it should be present in all aspects of our lives, including where and how we live, learn, work and enjoy our leisure time."
"All parties involved - Government, companies, educators, health professionals, institutions, communities and each Azorean citizen - have a role to play in building a healthier Region," stressed the Regional Secretary.