PERSONAL ASSISTANCE – COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE LEGISLATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK IN THE AREA OF SOCIAL SERVICES

Abstract

The paper presents the findings of an external assessment of the current regulatory framework of existing social services and associated services as well as the current regulatory framework regarding the area of social services and employment of persons with disabilities aiming at introducing personal assistance, carried out in the period February-June 2017. The paper aims at reflecting upon the potential future role of the system for personal assistance service provided for persons with disabilities in the Republic of Macedonia, and to estimate the extent to which legal amendments needs to be developed in facilitating this system in the national legislation. An additional purpose is to provide recommendations in a step-by-step approach for initiating the establishment of the system and the legal status, financing, responsibilities and oversight of the work of the service providers and personal assistants, as integral part of the system.
Key words: legislation, personal assistance, person with disabilities