by InTrieste
The Friuli Venezia Giulia regional government has approved the preliminary distribution of €1.78 million in state funding to strengthen support services for students with disabilities, as regional officials say schools are facing a growing demand for assistance.
The allocation, endorsed by the Regional Council of Local Authorities (Cal), will finance services that promote autonomy and communication for students with disabilities attending upper secondary schools, as well as students with sensory disabilities at all levels of education.
Speaking after the meeting, Regional Health Councillor Riccardo Riccardi said the increasing number of disability cases in schools requires a shift in how services are organized.
“The growing incidence of disability in schools means we must move the focus of assistance from the healthcare system to community-based social services,” Riccardi said. He added that while students’ needs have changed rapidly, support services—particularly those connected to schools—have not evolved at the same pace. He said the regional government is working to adapt the system and that additional training and staffing for territorial services will be needed.
The funds will be distributed among the region’s four former provincial areas according to criteria developed in consultation with the Regional Council of Associations of People with Disabilities and Their Families. Udine will receive the largest share, €748,170, followed by Pordenone with €528,277, Trieste with €258,775 and Gorizia with €245,367.
The money will be managed by the local authorities responsible for coordinating municipal social services.
According to the regional government, the funding will cover services provided during the 2025–2026 school year by assistants who work alongside students with disabilities. These professionals support students in achieving the educational objectives set out in their individualized education plans, encourage inclusion and social participation, and help coordinate communication between schools and families.
