The Foundation for Social Welfare Services, that runs various government support agencies including Appoġġ and Sedqa, will become an Authority following a restructuring process, Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia announced this afternoon.

A committee, made of representatives from NGOs, Church organisations and government representatives will draw up proposals for this restructuring process that will see the FSWS become a legal entity. The committee will start meeting next week.

Committee members will be tasked with reviewing the way government agencies work and ensure more collaboration and efficiency. For example, in the drug sector, more emphasis would be placed on prevention apart from rehabilitation.

There would be improved collaboration between NGOs, the Church and government to ensure better use of resources, Dr Farrugia said.

He said the government was working on reaching agreements with the Church to use empty buildings for social purposes. Another agreement would ensure that siblings living in residential care would not be separated and foster families will be encouraged and supported to take siblings.

The restructuring process will also ensure there are standards and quality assurance systems in place. Measures will be taken to reduce waiting lists and address the shortage of social workers by recruiting new ones and encouraging experienced social workers to stay on.