Summary
- 20 offers received for managing 24-hour and 14-hour Women’s centers in Valencia.
- the estimated value of the contracts is €43.6 million.
- Improvements in salaries and staffing levels are expected.
- New Women’s Center in Elche to be established.
- Hiring to increase from 126 to 159 professionals across the network.
Valencia’s Women’s Center Contracts: Progressing Towards Better services
the Generalitat Valenciana has taken a important step in enhancing services for women across the region with the recent declaration of receiving 20 proposals for the management of 24-hour and 14-hour women’s Centers. This initiative aims to improve support for victims of gender-based violence, ensuring better facilities, increased staff, and enhanced salaries for professionals working in these crucial centers.
Overview of the Offers Received
As of February 16, the Generalitat has received a total of 20 offers from various companies. These proposals are categorized into different lots:
- Lot 1: 24-hour Women’s center in Alicante – 6 offers
- Lot 2: 24-hour Women’s Center in Castelló de la Plana – 5 offers
- Lot 3: 24-hour Women’s center in Valencia – 5 offers
- Lot 4: 14-hour Women’s Centers in Dénia,Torrevieja,Elda,and Elche – 4 offers
Financial Commitment
The Generalitat has committed to an estimated investment of €43.6 million. This decision fulfills a longstanding need for these centers, which have been operating without formal contracts since 2019, following a previous failure to secure a successful bid in 2023. The new contracts aim to stabilize and enhance the quality of services provided to women.
Impact on Professionals and Services
Felipe del Baño, the Commissioner for the Fight Against Gender Violence, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it not only ensures continuity of service but also addresses concerns related to salary and staffing.Key benefits include:
- Increased salaries for professionals through updated salary scales.
- Expansion of the workforce from 126 to 159 professionals, addressing staffing needs.
- Creation of a new Women’s Center in Elche, responding to local demands.
Next Steps in the Contract Process
Following the submission of proposals, a meeting for the contract evaluation committee is scheduled for February 18. During this session, the envelopes containing the offers will be opened, leading to the awarding of contracts. The contracts will span two years, with an option for a two-year extension, thus establishing a stable operational framework for the centers.
Community Engagement and Awareness Initiatives
An exciting addition will be the establishment of a technical team for social integration in the Women’s Centers located in Alicante province. This team will provide ongoing outreach and awareness programs in schools, associations, and other community organizations, promoting prevention and sensitization around issues of gender violence.
Conclusion
The steps taken by the Generalitat valenciana reflect a strong commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of women across the region. By enhancing support services and ensuring fair working conditions for professionals, Valencia is making strides toward fostering a safer environment for the victims of gender-based violence.
For more details, visit the original article by EUROPA PRESS.