Implementation period: 11.04.2022 – 11.04.2024

Project BGLD-3.002 "Integrated measures for improved inclusion of people living in marginalized communities" of Program "Local development, poverty reduction and improved inclusion of vulnerable groups" financed by the Financial Mechanism of the European Economic Area (EEA FM) 2014-2021.

The main goal of the project "Integrated measures for improved inclusion of people living in marginalized communities" is, through effective integrated approaches, to create sustainable mechanisms to improve the condition and opportunities of people living in marginalized Roma communities and to achieve effective empowerment of Roma people on the territory of Pernik Municipality.

The project will improve the access of the Roma community and other vulnerable groups to social services, education, employment, healthcare and non-discrimination and is based on the active participation of the Roma community and the cooperation between local authorities, civil society and other service providers.

The activities are implemented by the Municipality of Pernik in partnership with the PULSE Foundation and Intermezzo ungdom, Norway.

The project sets the following specific goals:

1. Increasing access and ensuring better social, health, educational and labor services for the Roma people and other vulnerable groups of the population, living in segregated communities and facing extreme poverty and exclusion.
2. Introduction of a complex approach aimed at improving the condition of the end users, depending on their needs.
3. Empowering Roma communities, including Roma women and youth, with the aim of their active participation in decision-making processes affecting their lives.
4. Opposition to all forms of discrimination and negative attitudes against the Roma population.
5. Active inclusion of the target group in the public life of Pernik Municipality and overcoming stereotypes and prejudices regarding the Roma community.
6. Exchange of experience and good practices with a partner NGO from the Kingdom of Norway.
7. Reduction of economic and social differences in the countries of the European Economic Area and strengthening of bilateral relations between the donor countries and Bulgaria.

Within the framework of the project, it is planned to form a multidisciplinary team and provide integrated social and health services, repair and equip a hub for social and health services, and conduct educational and informational events on various topics.