Country Report
The country report seeks to shed light on ECI in Greece through four key chapters:
- Definition of family-centred ECI
- Mapping of Services
- Funding of Services
- The needs of ECI Service Providers.
The analysis was based on several research methods, including desk research, the results of structured interviews, online surveys, and focus groups addressed to various groups of respondents. These included parents of young children using ECI services and professionals employed in various organisations which support the development of young children and help their families, as well as policymakers and experts in the field of ECI in Greece.
The report found that components of an ECI system are present in the country, but not structured as an integrated ECI system. Different services are available for children with disabilities and their families, delivered by both the public and private sectors providers in the areas of health, social welfare and education.
Although many providers offer high-quality services and employ qualified staff, the lack of framework generates confusion on what an ECI system entails for both providers and families. Furthermore, the dominant approach is limited to a medical perspective focusing on children’s weaknesses rather than building on their strengths and supporting the family through community resources.
To sum up, the primary issues of the ECI provision in Greece highlighted through research and consultations are:
Lack of uniform quality standards and regulations for ECI providers
Unequal availability and accessibility of ECI programmes at a national, municipal, and regional level
Significant gaps and delays in service provisions for children under the age of 3
Lack of standardised procedures for involving families in the initial assessment, the development, and monitoring of individualised therapeutical programmes
Lack of coordination among the different access points to the service system, the involved agents, services and ECI professionals
A medical approach where families' needs, priorities, and resources are not at the centre of the intervention.
