4. Social services facilities »»»» 4. Social services facilities 3 visits a facility providing social services without ­authorisation a retirement home a special regime home Summary report on homes for people with disabilities In 2019, we processed findings from 9 visits and a summary report was published at the beginning of 2020. In addition to evaluating material conditions, the visits were also concerned with inmates’ safety (peaceful relationships, dealing with falls and challenging behaviour), conditions enabling private and family life including sexuality, provision of special methods of communication, restriction of free movement, conditions for autonomy of will and support for clients’ autonomous decision-making. Summary report We point out systemic problems ― We reiterate that there is no independent body to deal with complaints raised by clients of social services. Although the Defender lacks this competence, she still receives complaints and requests for help (more than 120 in 2019). The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs acknowledges the systemic shortcoming, but has yet to provide for remedy. ― It is necessary to boost support for transformation and deinstitutionalisation of residential social services. In fact, the adopted national strategy and action plans do not force service providers and founders to make any changes and a number of homes are thus absolutely institutional in nature. ― The legal regulation of personnel, material and technical standards in social services has still not been prepared. At the same time, the conditions at some facilities are not satisfactory, which may lead to ill-treatment. ― unavailability of social services is a precondition for dignity and autonomy. Availability planning falls within independent competence of administrative regions in the Czech Republic. A survey has showed major differences in availability and the State lacks tools to influence it. Report on the Public Defender’s Survey and Recommendations 15