Latvian agency invites unpaid caregivers of disabled relatives to free training

The State Social Integration Agency (SIVA) has opened registration for a free training program aimed at people who, without any payment, care for a relative with a disability or functional impairment. The agency announced the initiative in a press release.

The invitation is addressed broadly to informal caregivers — those looking after a family member, friend, or other close person who has been assigned a disability status or has documented functional impairments, and who provide this care without financial compensation. Such unpaid caregivers regularly take on a demanding but often under-recognized role in supporting relatives with health or functional limitations.

Training begins at the end of September

According to SIVA, the new training program will begin on September 28. The agency is encouraging everyone who fits the described criteria to apply, in order to gain knowledge and skills that could be useful in carrying out caregiving duties.

The announcement did not provide further detail on the length of the program, its specific topics, or the exact registration process — those interested are advised to contact SIVA directly for additional conditions and to register. The initiative is part of a broader support system in Latvia focused on addressing the needs of people with disabilities and those who care for them.