Liepāja Social Service restructures to work more efficiently

Since July 1, Liepāja's Social Service has been operating under a new internal structure aimed at freeing up more time for direct work with residents and reducing bureaucracy, while handing building maintenance tasks to specialized professionals. Director Dace Zeļģe explains the changes stem from evolving national regulations and the social services system, requiring the department to adapt its organization accordingly.

As part of a staffing review, 69 previous positions were eliminated and 46 new ones created to match the restructured functions. Some duties were merged or reassigned, while technical tasks such as maintaining social housing buildings are no longer the department's responsibility.

Building management shifts to other institutions

Maintenance of five Liepāja social housing buildings is now handled by the municipal Real Estate Department and SIA "Liepājas namu apsaimniekotājs," which also took on several former caretakers and cleaning staff. A new Social Support Division was created within the department, led by Linda Nīmane, while Baiba Purmale now serves as senior social worker. Residents' day-to-day issues continue to be handled on-site through building caretakers, and billing procedures remain unchanged.

Other service changes

The day center for people with intellectual disabilities has merged with the Specialized Workshops on Teodora Breikša Street, forming the new "Saulessvece" Day Center led by Maija Agatina. The "Home Care" office's functions have been taken over by the Social Services Division, though services continue at the same location on Klaipēdas Street. Both senior day centers continue operating as before, though activities will now be coordinated by a single senior activities organizer, a position currently being filled.

The Social Work Division has been renamed the Social Work Division for Families with Children, better reflecting its main focus on working with Liepāja families. Details on the changes and new contacts are available via the Liepāja.lv portal or by phone through the client service center.