On Wednesday, 10/09/2025, and Thursday, 11/09/2025, the Social Inclusion Observatory visited the Municipality of Leros. It conducted interviews with the Deputy Mayor of Social Policy, Mrs. 
Vasiliki Evangelou, with the staff of the Community Center and the “Help at Home” program, as well as with the President of KOISPE (Limited Liability Social Cooperative) Leros.
Ms. Evangelou spoke about the youth and the difficulties they face in finding job on the island, as well as the high rental prices, which lead many to choose migration. The Municipality has received approval and is in the process of establishing a Special School, a Day Care Center for Elderly with Disabilities (KIFI), a Recreational Center for Children with Disabilities (KDAP AmEA), and a nursery. Their goal is to create a structure for Independent Living for People with Disabilities.
The staff of the Community Center emphasized the need for the presence of a child psychologist/child psychiatrist on the island, as well as the need to establish a Recreational Center for Children (KDAP) especially during the summer months. It was noted that young people whose parents own a business prefer to work in the family business rather than leave for studies.
The staff member of the “Help at Home” program highlighted the absence of a nurse for the past 12 years, a key specialty necessary for the implementation of the program, which has been operating continuously since 2003. It serves approximately 74 people—mainly elderly—and employs one social worker and two family 
assistants.
Finally, during the meeting and tour held at the premises of KOISPE Leros, Mr. Georgiou spoke about the important work the cooperative provides in the lives of people with psychosocial problems and the opportunity they have for employment integration and equal treatment.
Lastly, the Observatory would like to thank the Municipality of Leros for their cooperation and contribution to the research, as well as all the participants.
(Text and photos: Theodora Symeonoglou)
