The Last Bastion for Protecting Human Dignity ‘Gwangjuness Community Care’ in Gwangju, Republic of Korea
摘要
In situations where individuals are unable to perform daily tasks due to health conditions, the assistance of others can become a crucial means of preserving their dignity. However, the current caregiving system often restricts support to those who meet specific criteria, such as age or income levels, and requires eligible individuals to actively apply for services. This approach can leave many in need without the necessary care. To address these limitations, the innovative “Gwangjuness Community Care” model has been developed. Unlike traditional systems, this model is designed to provide care to anyone in need, regardless of their age, income, or other qualifying factors. The initiative empowers care managers based in local dong-offices to proactively visit individuals in their homes, assess their situations, and apply for the appropriate services on their behalf. The Gwangjuness Community Care model has introduced 16 new care services, supported by an annual budget of $7.74 million. This financial commitment is aimed at ensuring that citizens facing economic challenges can access the care they require. To further enhance accessibility, a “Care Call” system has been launched, providing a single, streamlined application channel that simplifies the process for those seeking assistance. This comprehensive approach not only broadens the scope of care to include all who need it but also reduces barriers to accessing essential services, thereby enhancing the well-being and dignity of the city’s most vulnerable residents. The initiative is related to SDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, and 17.