KEAN, in cooperation with the Municipality of Ioannina, created and launched the operation of the Information and Support Centre (ISC), which is co-funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The Information and Support Centre (K.E.Y.) was established and operates at 6A Aravantinou Street in Ioannina, on a daily basis from Monday to Friday, from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Its aim is to facilitate the access of refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable groups residing in the Region of Epirus to public services, in order to enhance the prospect of local integration. In addition, the operation of the Centre aims to enhance the exchange of information between local actors and refugees.

More specifically, the Information and Support Centre provides support and advice on:

-the issuance of an AMKA number, the issuance of a AFM number and the issuance of a Health Insurance Card, in accordance with the procedure and legislation in force,

-access to Social Solidarity Services and support services for the submission of applications for Social Solidarity Income (KEA),

-registration in the OAED and the issue of an unemployment card,

-The issuance of a bank account in a credit institution,

-the enrolment of children in primary and secondary schools,

-employment,

-defending their rights.

The interdisciplinary team of the Centre consists of cultural mediators/interpreters, legal advisor, social worker, educational, financial and administrative staff, who are responsible for the smooth operation of the Centre and the proper and integrated provision of services in the wider region of Epirus.

Finally, the ultimate goal of the Centre is to facilitate the access of refugees living in camps, shelters and sites of Epirus to public services, such as health and social security services, the provision of legal assistance and the facilitation of their access to the labour market, so that they can become independent and gradually build their lives outside the camps and shelters as part of the Greek society and therefore as part of the local communities.

Results:

-More than 3,000 refugees and asylum seekers received services from KEAN

-Operated a call centre providing help, advice and information to vulnerable people from other parts of Greece

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