Small islands: Targeted measures for housing, Personal Assistant, and 'Neighborhood Nannies'

Greece's Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, Domna Michailidou, emphasized the importance of targeted measures to ensure the sustainability and human-centric development of small islands.

Speaking at the Attica Green Expo 2026, Michailidou stated that the viability of small islands depends not only on infrastructure, energy, or technology but crucially on whether residents can remain in their homes, work, find housing, raise families, and access essential care services. "Social policy has no value if it doesn't reach everywhere. For me, it is judged first where it is most difficult to reach," she asserted.

A key focus was the "Personal Assistant" program for individuals with disabilities. The ministry is tailoring this program for small islands, acknowledging the scarcity of available assistants. Where personal assistants are unavailable, relatives will be permitted to take on the role under a clear framework with control measures. This adaptation aims to ensure that people with disabilities on islands are not deprived of services that enhance their autonomy.

Michailidou also highlighted the "Neighborhood Nannies" initiative, which provides practical support to families with young children, particularly in areas lacking sufficient childcare facilities or where seasonal work complicates daily life for parents. Grandparents can also participate if certified, leveraging existing community trust networks.

Furthermore, the minister linked the sustainability of small islands to housing and demographic resilience. She stressed that affordable and decent housing is essential for young people, families, and workers to remain on the islands. The "My House II" program, offering 10,000 euros for families relocating to remote areas, is being considered for expansion to small islands, potentially utilizing vacant properties.

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Social policy has no value if it doesn't reach everywhere. For me, it is judged first where it is most difficult to reach.