A €9.5 million project, co-financed through EU funds, is currently underway to redevelop Inspire's facilities
Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti, together with Minister for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector Julia Farrugia, visited the Inspire complex in Marsaskala, where they observed the work being carried out as part of a project to redevelop the organisation's facilities. The project is being co-financed through more than €5 million in EU funds.
During the visit, Ministers Azzopardi Tanti and Farrugia were briefed on this investment, which will upgrade the existing facilities and create new recreational and therapeutic spaces, with the aim of strengthening the services provided to people with different disabilities.
The entire project represents a total investment of €9,592,608 and is expected to be completed by 2028.
As part of the project, the Inspire complex will include new therapy rooms, sensory spaces, creative arts and music studios, a hydrotherapy area, outdoor play spaces, and vocational training facilities.
Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti highlighted the importance of investments that directly improve the quality of services provided to persons with disabilities and their families, while further strengthening their inclusion and participation in the community. “European funds have real value when they are translated into investments that directly improve people's lives, particularly those of the most vulnerable. This Inspire project is a clear example of our work in this area to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities."
Minister Julia Farrugia said that this investment represents another important step towards more modern and inclusive services built around the needs of persons with disabilities and their families. “Through this project, not only will the facilities be strengthened, but also a range of essential services. At the same time, this investment demonstrates how collaboration between the Government, European funds and the voluntary sector can bring tangible change in people's lives. Inspire has been an important partner in this field for many years, and we will continue working together to build a society in which every person has the support and opportunities they need to participate fully in the community," said Minister Farrugia.
These facilities will support day-care and respite programmes, early intervention for autism and other disabilities, outreach services in schools, and life-skills training for adolescents and adults. A new Family Support Centre will also be established for parents, carers and professionals.
The project will also place particular emphasis on vocational training and independence through spaces that simulate workplace environments, including a kitchen, cafeteria, post office and hotel.
A new Educational and Community Hub is planned to be developed by June 2028. During its first year of operation, the new facilities are expected to support 440 persons with disabilities, while the number of families reached is expected to increase from 286 to 918.
