Regional Open Disability Work (OBA)

The funding program “Regional Open Disability Work (OBA)” of the Bavarian State Ministry for Family, Labour and Social Affairs supports non-profit organizations, interest groups, associations, as well as public institutions throughout Bavaria in establishing and expanding low-threshold outpatient assistance and counseling services for people with physical, intellectual, or sensory disabilities (§ 99 SGB IX), as well as for chronically ill individuals and their relatives. The aim of the funding is comprehensive outpatient care to ensure equal participation, relieve families, and serve as a guide within the social environment. Within the framework of an annual project, personnel costs for qualified professionals (up to €28,800 per professional, €22,700 for other specialists), material costs, public relations, as well as training and coordination of volunteers are subsidized. At the same time, providers must establish a staffing ratio of 1 professional per 50,000 inhabitants and demonstrate that the service is open to all target groups. The ongoing funding opportunity enables sustainable support of established services and further development of professional concepts.

The allocation is made as a fixed-amount grant for a period of twelve months. Evaluation focuses particularly on the regional reach of the counseling service, compliance with the staffing ratio, and the quality of the professional concept. Interested providers submit their application in agreement with the umbrella or state association as well as the responsible district. Required documents include a financing plan, an overview of eligible personnel, and for initial projects a detailed concept as well as a professional statement from the umbrella/state association. The funding strengthens established structures, opens up new service locations, and sustainably promotes the self-determined living of people with disabilities.