In a progressive move aimed at bolstering support for families caring for elderly relatives, the Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development (DCD), in partnership with the Family Development Foundation (FDF) and the Department of Government Enablement (DGE), has announced the introduction of a new service titled “Flexible Work.” This initiative forms part of the broader “Barakatna” (Our Blessing) project, which is envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This groundbreaking initiative reflects the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) commitment to fostering a compassionate society that values familial bonds and support for its aging population.
At the heart of the “Flexible Work” service is the recognition that many employees in the UAE undertake the critical responsibility of caregiving for their elderly parents. Abdul Rahman Al Balushi, the Director of Strategic Planning and Institutional Development at the FDF, elucidates that this service enables designated individuals to apply for a “Primary Caregiver for Parents” certificate. This certification is pivotal as it provides a formal mechanism through which employees can request flexible working hours or arrangements from their respective employers.
To qualify for this significant support, applicants must fulfill several key criteria. Paramount among these is the stipulation that the employee must be employed with a government entity within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Moreover, potential applicants must demonstrate that their elderly parent requires ongoing care at home; this requirement must be supported by a medical report issued by a licensed healthcare facility within Abu Dhabi, with the stipulation that this report is not older than three months. This ensures that only genuine caregiving situations are recognized, thereby preserving the integrity of the initiative.
Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of Family Development at the FDF, further clarifies that eligible parents must be senior citizens aged 60 years or older, conforming to the National Policy for Senior Citizens. This policy underscores the UAE’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being of its older population, acknowledging their valuable contributions to society over the years.
Additional stipulations for applicants include the necessity for them to be first-degree relatives, specifically the son or daughter of the elderly parent, and to reside permanently with their parents at the same address, thereby intensifying their role as primary caregivers. Furthermore, applicants must possess a family book issued by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and maintain permanent residency status in the emirate, further anchoring the initiative in the local context.
The application process for the flexible work service is streamlined through the “TAMM” digital government services platform. This digital approach not only reflects the UAE’s commitment to modernization and efficiency but also enhances accessibility for those seeking this vital support system. Applicants are required to submit pertinent documents digitally and will subsequently receive a confirmation notice. Following this, a field visit will be scheduled to conduct a social study, leading to a comprehensive case evaluation before the issuance of the caregiver certificate.
This initiative is emblematic of a broader recognition of the crucial role caregivers play in supporting their families, particularly in light of a global trend toward increased longevity and the associated challenges of elder care. By providing the framework needed for flexible work arrangements, the UAE is paving the way for a more inclusive workforce that acknowledges and adapts to the complexities of personal obligations.
As societal structures evolve, it is crucial for governments and organizations to remain agile and responsive to the multifaceted needs of their citizens. The “Flexible Work” service not only represents a significant step in this direction but also serves as a model for other nations grappling with the realities of an aging population and the need for effective family support systems.
In conclusion, the proactive measures being undertaken by the authorities in Abu Dhabi signal a commendable shift toward addressing the realities faced by modern families. They encapsulate a holistic approach that balances professional commitments with personal responsibilities, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more harmonious society.
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