Proposal by the Socialist Party of Iceland that the welfare division (velferðarsvið) create space and a channel

Proposal by the Socialist Party of Iceland that the welfare division create space and a channel to facilitate those who use the division's services to convey their experiencewas discussed at a welfare council (velferðarráð) meeting earlier. It was decided to refer the proposal to a steering group (stýrihóp) on policy-making in the development of community centers for adults, for further consideration. Reykjavík City has 17 community centers throughout the city which are open to city residents of all ages and they could be well suited for this activity.

The proposal is as follows:It is proposed that the welfare division make the establishment of interest groups for those who use the division's services easier by offering a place where the different groups can meet if they choose to. The welfare division provides services and support to numerous individuals in various areas, and it is important to hear the voices of those individuals to see and hear how the service can be improved. The welfare division's services concern issues of senior citizens, disabled people, homeless individuals, and issues of children and young people. The welfare division also handles family and social affairs; under these matters fall, for example, financial assistance and special housing support. The welfare division also provides home services, is involved in social rental housing projects, and manages the operation of service centers.

Interest groups exist for various issues that relate to the welfare division's services, but not all of them. Often, a lack of a meeting place can be an obstacle in establishing facilities to meet and discuss with those who are in similar situations to oneself. A meeting place often costs money that not everyone has, and therefore it is proposed that the welfare division provide such a place and make information about the meeting place accessible. If interest groups wish to convey information on how to improve the service, a platform for such expertise shall be created in collaboration with the interest groups, the welfare division, and the welfare council.