1st Stakeholder meeting held in Serbia by Municipality of Irig
The Municipality of Irig held a workshop for the ELEVATE project, bringing together local stakeholders to identify the key needs and challenges of elderly people, parents of children with developmental disabilities, and persons with disabilities. The workshop provided a platform for open dialogue, reflection on survey findings, and collaborative discussions on priorities to be included in the local action plan. With active engagement from associations, community members, and municipal representatives, the session laid the groundwork for pilot initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility, personal assistance, and social inclusion for all target groups.
1. Objective of the Workshop
The workshop aimed to involve local stakeholders in identifying the key needs and challenges of three target groups – elderly people (60+), parents of children with developmental disabilities, and persons with disabilities (adults and children). The session also provided a platform for discussing priorities to be included in the local action plan and the preparation of pilot initiatives under the ELEVATE project.
2. Participants
The workshop brought together 35 participants, representing:
associations of pensioners,
associations of parents of children with developmental disabilities,
adults and children with disabilities
project team
representatives of Municipality of Irig.
3. Workshop Proceedings
The event opened with a presentation of the project’s overall goals, followed by a presentation of survey results previously conducted among the target groups. Participants then engaged in moderated discussions and group work to reflect on the findings and share their own perspectives and experiences.
4. Key Needs and Priorities Identified
Through discussion, participants emphasized that the most urgent needs across all three groups are:
- provision of personal assistants,
- organized transport to health institutions.
In addition, participants agreed that the most important activity to be implemented within the project is the establishment of a shared community space that will serve all three groups as a venue for social gatherings, educational programs, and building social connections.
5. Conclusions and Next Steps
The workshop concluded with agreement on the following next steps:
- development of a local action plan based on identified priorities,
- planning of pilot activities, with focus on accessibility, personal assistance, and community space,
- ensuring regular dialogue between target groups and local institutions,
- organizing follow-up workshops to monitor progress and maintain inclusive participation.
6. Overall Impression
The workshop created a constructive and participatory atmosphere. Participants were highly motivated to take part in shaping future activities and confirmed that personal assistance, access to health services, and opportunities for social interaction are crucial for improving their quality of life. Their active engagement forms a solid foundation for the successful continuation of ELEVATE project activities in the Municipality of Irig.
Author: Nataša Pavlovič
08/10/2025
By Jasna Presečki
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