The project supports the Government of North Macedonia in advancing the reform of the social protection system, with a strong focus on deinstitutionalisation and the transition towards community-based social care services. It aims to improve the quality, accessibility and inclusiveness of services for children, persons with disabilities and the elderly, moving away from large residential institutions towards more personalised and locally integrated care solutions.

Through technical assistance, the project will support the transformation of three key public institutions, Banja Bansko in Strumica, Demir Kapija, and “25 May” in Skopje, into modern centres for the provision of community-based services. In parallel, it will strengthen the capacities of public administration to plan and implement EU-funded investments in the social sector.

The project will also prepare the technical and administrative groundwork for future infrastructure investments under the EU-funded Multiannual Operational Programme on Human Capital (2024–2027), contributing to sustainable and long-term improvements in the social care system.

• To support the transformation of selected residential institutions into providers of modern, community-based social care services.
• To improve access to inclusive and quality social services across different regions, reducing territorial disparities.
• To strengthen the capacities of national institutions to plan, manage and implement EU-funded investments in the social sector.
• To prepare technical and administrative documentation for rehabilitation works under future EU-funded programmes.
• To contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient social service delivery models.

• Completed needs assessments identifying priorities for the rehabilitation and transformation of the three institutions.
• Developed preliminary and detailed technical designs, including all necessary documentation and permits for construction works.
• Prepared tender documentation enabling the launch of rehabilitation and transformation works.
• Strengthened institutional capacity to manage infrastructure investments and service transformation processes.
• Developed sustainability plans ensuring the long-term operation and effectiveness of community-based social services.