The Association of Families of People with Autism of Las Palmas (Apnalp) has supported 522 users in the last year and a half thanks to the 'TEAcompañamos' programme, funded by the City Council. The 'El Panal' centre has 12 supported living accommodations and comprehensive services.
The Association of Families of People with Autism of Las Palmas (Apnalp) has managed to support 522 people in just a year and a half through its 'TEAcompañamos' programme. The initiative, funded by the City Council of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, includes a pioneering centre in the Canary Islands with 12 rooms for people with autism who require specific support to gain autonomy.
The coordinator of services for the entity, María Afonso, highlighted during a visit from the mayor Carolina Darias that the 'El Panal' centre is a unique comprehensive resource in the islands. However, she warned that waiting lists remain long and that more resources are needed to meet the demand.
A comprehensive centre with supported living accommodations
The complex, named 'El Panal', is divided into two buildings. One is focused on comprehensive care from early diagnosis in children, while the other houses the 12 rooms for adults with autism who need specific support. The centre has a speech therapy room, a play area, a dining room, and even two gardens.
Mayor Carolina Darias, accompanied by the Councillor for Social Welfare, Carmen Luz Vargas, and the General Director of Social Services, Carlos Gómez, praised the work of the association. "It is a turning point in helping with the life path they have ahead, which is not easy," the mayor stated during the tour.
Needs for improvement and daily activities
María Afonso pointed out that the centre requires specific and functional flooring to maintain hygiene in the children's care rooms. Although they already have some recycled materials from the old Fátima centre, funding for the installation of the flooring remains a challenge.
Users of the centre also participate in creative activities, such as designing fabric bags with the logo of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria's candidacy for European Capital of Culture 2031. Additionally, the association organises an adapted summer camp, which began on June 29 and will end on August 14, with personalised programmes for each individual.
For the residents of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, this centre provides relief for many families who previously did not have a specific resource on the island. Early intervention and supported living accommodations allow people with autism to develop their autonomy in a family-friendly and welcoming environment.
The next step, according to the association, is to secure more funding to reduce waiting lists and improve facilities. The mayor committed to continue supporting the project, which is already a benchmark in the Canary Islands.
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