Background

The survey conducted by the Open Society Club, Veliko Turnovo, showed that the frequency of terminal diseases, and cancer in particular, in the Veliko Turnovo and Gabrovo areas is higher than the country average (212.35 in Veliko Turnovo and 188.95, compared to 180.3 average for the country).

Practice

The Municipality of Veliko Turnovo participated in the project by providing a building for the home and by actively supporting the Open Society Club with regard to funding. Negotiations were held with the Co-operating Netherlands Foundations, the Government of Japan and the World Council of Churches. The project got recommendations from the Ministry of Healthcare and the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy. An agreement was signed with the Regional Health Insurance Fund to finance the home s operations. The initiative relied extremely on the experts who had declared their commitment to support the project, as well as on the volunteer efforts of young people.

On July 22, 1999, the Veliko Turnovo Municipal Council unanimously voted in favor of giving the building of the former Vasil Levski kindergarten to the Open Society Club for a 10-year period. The contract was signed in February 2000. Meanwhile, the Club s team was trying to find funding and generate public support for the project. An Expert Council was established involving experts in different areas: doctors, legal advisors, psychologists, social workers, architects, construction engineers and economists. The faculty of the Veliko Turnovo University arranged for students in social activities to actively participate in the home s operation.

In-house care activities have been initiated so far, entirely on a voluntary basis. The Open Society Club intends to continue to seek external funding to finish the home. A complete cost breakdown for the reconstruction and repair works on the building was developed. When the home is finished, it will become self-sustainable through fees for patients, sponsorship and charity.

Results

Such an activity requires significant funding and is somewhat restricted by unclear legislation. However, Veliko Turnovo s experience shows that the partnership between local administration and citizen groups may enhance the implementation of impossible ideas.

The local media demonstrated strong interest in the development of the project and provided full coverage. The public attitude is also positive and so far no negative reactions or skepticism have been registered.