Sharjah Ruler's New Law Organizes Social Services Department
Sharjah's Ruler, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, has issued a new law to regulate the Sharjah Social Services Department. Under law No.5 of 2023, the department has been granted independent legal status.
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Law Enacted to Establish Sharjah Social Services Department: Enhancing Social Welfare and Support
equipped with the necessary legal capabilities to fulfill its objectives and exercise its responsibilities. As an entity affiliated with the central government of Sharjah, the department's headquarters are situated in the city of Sharjah, with the possibility of establishing branches in other cities and regions of the emirate, subject to approval by the Executive Council.
Promoting Social Welfare and Empowering the Vulnerable
The primary mission of the department is to ensure social welfare and improve living conditions for individuals and families within the emirate. It aims to safeguard and support the most vulnerable segments of society, facilitating their access to their rights. Additionally, the department strives to advance and organize social work in Sharjah, fostering social cohesion and solidarity among individuals, families, and social institutions. It endeavors to empower community members to effectively address social challenges, attain social stability, and enhance their overall well-being.
Formulating Policies and Collaborating for Progress
To achieve its objectives, the department is authorized to develop comprehensive policies, formulate strategic plans, and submit them to the Executive Council for appropriate decisions. It may propose the necessary legislation and regulations, presenting them to the Council for consideration. Furthermore, the department can seek assistance from relevant authorities to acquire administrative and technical support. Collaborative efforts with other entities can be pursued through contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, and partnerships, subject to approval by the Executive Council.
Support, Assistance, and Advocacy
The Sharjah Social Services Department serves as the representative of the emirate in local, regional, and international conferences, seminars, and meetings related to social affairs, aiming to achieve social development and enhance the global standing of Sharjah. The department is entrusted with providing support, subsidies, and social assistance to eligible groups. It assumes responsibility for offering day and home care services tailored to the needs of the elderly and special groups. Additionally, the department oversees the welfare of individuals lacking social care, making appropriate decisions to secure their rights and represent them legally. The management and supervision of social care homes and shelters, along with the implementation of judicial rulings pertaining to family and parental relations, fall within its purview.
Regulating the Social Sector and Associations
The department assumes the vital role of organizing the social sector within Sharjah. This encompasses the regulation and oversight of activities, professions, services, and sectors conducted by public entities, as well as for-profit and non-profit organizations. It also takes on the responsibility of organizing and supervising public welfare associations in the emirate, in coordination with relevant authorities and in accordance with existing laws.
Appointment of the Department's Chairman
The appointment of the chairman of the Sharjah Social Services Department will be made through an Emiri decree, ensuring effective leadership and direction for the department's operations.