Taipei launches bonus program to support long-term care workers
Incentive aims to improve working conditions and retention in disability care facilities
Caregiver resting with an employer in Kaohsiung.
(CNA photo)
Daily TribuneIncentive aims to improve working conditions and retention in disability care facilities
Caregiver resting with an employer in Kaohsiung.
(CNA photo)
Taipei is introducing a new incentive program in March to reward long-term care professionals with annual bonuses, aiming to enhance working conditions and retain skilled staff in disability care facilities.
The Department of Social Welfare (DOSW) announced that full-time nurses, social workers, caregivers, and life service staff in six types of care institutions will be eligible for the program. Bonuses start at NT$15,600 (US$476) per year after one year of service, increasing to NT$62,400 annually after seven years. Facility operators employing full-time professionals can also receive subsidies ranging from NT$8,400 to NT$33,600 annually.
The initiative comes as Taipei faces a rapidly aging population, with the city officially becoming a super-aged society in 2022. Currently, Taipei has 88 disability care facilities with over 900 full-time professionals. The city aims to expand this to 130 facilities by 2031 by utilizing social housing projects and repurposing public spaces.
DOSW Director-General Yao Shu-wen highlighted the importance of stable employment conditions in ensuring long-term support for individuals with disabilities. The program will run as a pilot initiative through 2031.