AMS-EGT: geographical extension complete

The phase of the AMS-EGT project aimed at extending Modello Sicilia for adoptions to the whole of Sicily reached its conclusion with the final training event which took place in May in Syracuse. The event prepared the psychologists and social workers involved in the project for the future use of the IT platform MDC.

The geographical extension of the model, active since 2005, which improved the procedure for potential adoptive parents requesting approval from local authorities in Palermo saw 4 juvenile courts involved as well as 55 municipalities and relative health boards throughout the whole of Sicily.
A major change which involves three key actors working to protect the best interests of children. Moving from a slow paper based process with procedures varying greatly from one area to another to a standardised procedure with real time transmission of data will ensure greater efficiency and reduced waiting time for children who have been declared adoptable by the authorities in their countries of origin.
The methodology and the technology used for the adoptions process is now being applied to cases where children’s rights are at risk and cases of foster care. This phase of the project is in its initial stages and a pilot group will soon be ready to test the model in the municipality of Palermo.