On May 5th, we marked the first ten years of a project rooted in social initiative, led by the Solidaridad y Trabajo Foundation (SOLTRA), with a vision for the future in serving the most vulnerable individuals.
A decade ago, the mini-residence and the pre-employment day center Mrs. Cinia were launched through an alliance between Castilla y León Social Services Management and SOLTRA Foundation. This initiative aimed to help people with severe mental disorders complete their recovery process and acquire sufficient skills for autonomous living and meaningful participation in society.
Valuing diversity and ensuring everyone can contribute to community life is both an aspiration and a right that concerns us as a society. These resources are necessary facilitators to make these processes a reality.
Looking back, we can situate ourselves at the moments of deploying the sociosanitary care model, which was later consolidated in Agreement 66/2016, dated October 27, by the Junta de Castilla y León. This agreement approved the guidelines governing the operation of the integrated sociosanitary care model for people with disabilities due to mental illness. Both the mini-residence and the day center were the second resources of this kind
Benedicto Caminero Pérez
Technical
Director
of Care for the Elderly and People with Disabilities
Social Services Management
Junta de Castilla y León
implemented in Castilla y León and the first in the province of León. The mini-residence, with its four homes for 10 people each, along with the day center and the Special Employment Center, are an essential part of the project to community-integrate support and the determined promotion of autonomy for people with disabilities, especially those with mental disorders who have always suffered greater exclusion from normalized life.
In those years, many people were still institutionalized in healthcare facilities, which, although designed for short stays, had become the habitual residence for several hundred individuals with severe mental illnesses.
The challenge was immensely complex, particularly for the SOLTRA Foundation, which, although experienced in providing support to people with disabilities, found individuals with severe mental disorders to be new territory. Nonetheless, they took on the challenge of being the life process companions for these individuals, in close collaboration with the Social Services Management, forming part of the Public Responsibility Network, and with the support of the public health system of Castilla y León, especially the mental health service of the León Health Area. At that time, I was performing administrative tasks as Head of
The first ten years... and the following ones Editorial
the Concertation Service at the Social Services Management, I must mention all the professionals, both public and private, who have contributed to the success of this collective project, with special remembrance of Iñaki Alkorta, president of the Foundation at that time.
I take this opportunity to express a wish for the next ten years, hoping they will serve to further deepen the rights-based models outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. May we regularly speak of concepts like independent living with support, promoting autonomy, normalization, and making it a reality for any person to access resources for the general population. Emphasizing the necessary personalization of support and conquering the right to choose the place and type of support for those with dependency or disability, with no more restrictions than the proper use of public funding.
CONGRATULATIONS on this decade and best wishes for the years to come.
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SOLTRA GROUP renews certifications in Spain
SOLTRA GROUP has successfully renewed all its certifications at its Spain headquarters. The objective of the audit was to update the global requirements of the management systems and verify their application in processes and facilities. The renewal of the certificates is a process that involves a thorough evaluation of the organization to verify compliance with the standards.
The ISO 9001 quality management, ISO 14001 environmental management, and IATF 16949 automotive sector certifications have been renewed, reinforcing SOLTRA GROUP’s commitment to excellence in all aspects of its operations. These standards aim to promote efficient management systems focused on product quality, environmental respect, and customer requirements compliance.
UNE-EN ISO 9001 certifies that since 2006, the organization has implemented a quality management system that strives for continuous improvement, resul-
ting in enhanced processes and the elimination of “non-quality” costs. It also achieves greater employee engagement in quality work and a stronger commitment to quality. The certified activities include cleaning, marketing services, laundry, industrial assembly, and gardening.
IATF 16949 has become an essential requirement for any organization working in the global automotive manufacturing supply chain. Many of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers make this certification a contractual requirement for their suppliers, making it a ticket to entry into the global automotive industry.
SOLTRA GROUP division dedicated to the mass production of automotive components (passenger and industrial vehicles) and spare parts has renewed the certificate issued by AENOR for the assembly of electrical components for the automotive sector, production, and assembly of lighting sets.
UNE-EN ISO 14001 confirms that the Quality and Environmental Management System is adequate and implemented throughout the organization. This certification reaffirms SOLTRA GROUP’s commitment to the environment, emphasizing staff awareness and implementing measures to reduce waste and gas emissions.
The delivery ceremony took place at SOLTRA GROUP’s headquarters in La Virgen del Camino (León) with the presence of Mr. Prudencio Herrero Acebo (AENOR Castilla y León Director) and Mr. David Sordo García (Quality and Environment Director at SOLTRA GROUP) accompanied by some members of the Quality Department.
ADEMAR
& SOLTRA: 5 years together for inclusion
The spirit of inclusion filled the León Arena on May 7th with the match between Abanca Ademar team and SOLTRA. In a festive atmosphere, people gathered to witness the “Match for Inclusion,” an initiative aimed at celebrating inclusion and diversity through sports, now in its fifth edition.
Accompanied by an enthusiastic crowd in the stands and a box with representatives from various associations and local authorities, the members of both teams played a handball match full of camaraderie and healthy competition.
The match was divided into two halves, each lasting 20 minutes, with a 10-minute intermission. During the break, the “Goal of Inclusion” contest took place, featuring members of Amidown, who received a spe-
cial souvenir from the Ademar Club and SOLTRA. At the end of the match, a trophy ceremony was held for the players.
Main objective of this event is to promote equal opportunities and rights for all people, regardless of their abilities. This event is part of the “Become an Incluencer” campaign launched by SOLTRA, which seeks to promote inclusion through various activities, recognizing sports as a fundamental tool for strengthening values and building a more inclusive society.
In a gesture of solidarity and commitment to social inclusion, the members of the Abanca Ademar handball team visited SOLTRA’s facilities in La Virgen del Camino, a few days after celebrating the Inclusion Match.
Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by José Antonio Idoeta, CEO of SOLTRA GROUP. As a token of appreciation, they presented Idoeta with a team jersey signed by all the Ademar players.
During the visit, the players learned about the various service lines offered by SOLTRA. They received explanations about the assembly and machining lines,
logistics services, and the laundry. Additionally, they observed the company’s efforts in promotion, education, and rehabilitation to foster the social inclusion of people with disabilities.
The tour also included a visit to Mrs. Cinia” Residence and Occupational Center of the SOLTRA Foundation. There, players talked with participants in one of the occupational workshops, exchanging experiences and showing their support and admiration for the work of everyone involved.
This visit reinforces Abanca Ademar’s commitment to inclu-
sion and social responsibility, emphasizing the importance of initiatives that promote integration and respect for diversity in all areas of society.
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SOLTRA & GAM join forces to create inclusive employment in machinery remanufacturing
REVIVER is GAM’s circular economy project that will revolutionize the way we conceive the purchase and consumption of machinery to date. Located in the town of Villacé in the province of León, its facilities cover an area of 200,000 square meters. As the first European center dedicated to making the industrial machinery sector more efficient through the Circular Economy, it seeks to extend the useful life of machines through remanufacturing and parts generation, thus contributing to the reduction of new machinery production and waste accumulation. The goal is to reintroduce about 3.000 machines to the market annually, both nationally and across Europe, resulting in considerable CO2 savings, equivalent to the production of 7.500 cars.
SOLTRA, a social economy business group, stands out for its strong presence in various sectors and its firm commitment to
generating and managing stable and adapted employment opportunities for people with disabilities. With more than two decades of experience in this field, SOLTRA has demonstrated its dedication to labor inclusion and diversity, prioritizing human value in the workplace. SOLTRA’s philosophy is based on adapting the job to the person, not the other way around. This philosophy is reflected in the various sections and activities it offers, such as marketing, laundry, cleaning, gardening, supermarkets, textiles, and industry. Currently, SOLTRA has a workforce of more than 1.000 workers distributed across its three locations in Spain, Mexico, and Denmark.
Both companies share a common vision of a future where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to contribute to both local and global development. Therefore, they have signed
an agreement to create jobs for people with disabilities. This strategic alliance strengthens the collaboration between companies committed to sustainability, inclusion, and job creation in disadvantaged geographical areas. To date, fifteen SOLTRA employees have started providing services at the REVIVER facility in Villacé, although this number is expected to increase in the future.
In recent years, SOLTRA has played a crucial role in revitalizing depopulated areas, as evidenced by the opening of two inclusive supermarkets in Puente Villarente and Veguellina de Órbigo. These initiatives have not only provided employment opportunities but have also contributed to the economic and social development of these localities.
Inclusion and creativity: micro-story contest Become Incluencer
On June 7th, the awards ceremony for the micro-story contest “Become an Incluencer” took place, as part of the inclusion campaign organized by SOLTRA and aimed at sixth-grade students. This contest, titled “What does it mean to be an Incluencer?”, encourages literary creativity among students and invites them to reflect on the situation of disability in today’s society.
In this edition, Become Incluencer campaign saw the participation of a total of 31 educational centers, including schools from León, La Bañeza, Trobajo del Camino, Bembibre, Mansilla de las Mulas, Sahagún, and a couple of schools from Madrid, totaling 1.353 students.
Among all the participants, Julia Tudanca from Colegio Asunción stood out as this year’s winner of the micro-story contest. In addition to the winner, several finalists were selected:
-CEIP Camino del Norte: Blanca Álvarez
-Discípulas de Jesús: Gala Fernández
-Divina Pastora: Hernán Rodríguez
-Jesuítas: Blanca García
-Leonés Corredera: Lucía Blanco
-Leonés José Aguado: Noa García
-Maristas San José: Érika García
-CEIP Puente Castro: Julen García
-Santa Teresa: Javier Melón
-Acacias (Madrid): Diego Cakir
The awards ceremony was particularly significant, as athlete and campaign ambassador María Martín Granizo was responsible for presenting the awards. During the event, María shared anecdotes from her competitions, emphasizing that the key to her success lies in effort and perseverance.
The winner and finalists also had the opportunity to collaborate with renowned graffiti artist Toño Prada (@artesprada) in creating a mural for inclusion, which was painted at SOLTRA’s facilities in La Virgen del Camino.
Thanks to all educational centers, teachers, and students who have made the success of this inclusion campaign possible.
SOLTRA GROUP Denmark surpases
Vestas audit and welcomes vicepresident Shandong Shuangyi Technology
We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the audit conducted by Vestas on April 23rd. Achieving a score of 82.48%, we have been approved to continue our collaboration as component suppliers for Vestas over the next three years. This excellent result allows us to manufacture all Vestas platforms, including the advanced 14 MW offshore version.
Vestas, the only global company exclusively dedicated to wind energy, distinguishes itself by manufacturing its own components, providing great flexibility in product development. Currently, Vestas has more than 51.000 wind turbines installed in 73 countries, generating over 60 GW of wind power and employing approximately 17.000 people. Their range of mass-produced wind turbines covers all wind regimes and segments, with recent enhancements to their 2 MW and 3 MW platforms to meet current customer needs.
From its humble beginnings in 1945 manufacturing household appliances to becoming a global leader in wind turbine manufacturing, Vestas has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Meanwhile, SOLTRA GROUP in Denmark has experienced significant growth since its establishment in Ringkøbing-Skjern in 2019. Starting with a team of 8 people, we now employ over 40 workers at our facility in Tim, on the west coast of Denmark.
The recent successful audit strengthens our position as a trusted subcontractor for Vestas and reflects our commitment to quality and sustainability in our operations.
In addition, last month we welcomed Mr. Zhao, Vice President of Shandong Shuangyi Technology, and Mr. Julian Ren, Director of Internal Sales. During their visit, they had the opportunity to learn about our work in promoting social in-
clusion through employment. This experience allowed them to appreciate our dedication not only to industrial excellence but also to social responsibility.
Shandong Shuangyi Technology is a leading high-tech enterprise specializing in the design, R&D, manufacturing, sales, and service of advanced composite products. Since its inception, Shuangyi Technology has established itself as a leader in the composite products industry, with the Shuangyi Group, founded in 1984, pioneering the production of Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP).
We share the magic or reading together with Grillitos Foundation
In a joint effort to promote education and imagination among children in vulnerable communities, SOLTRA GROUP in Mexico (Cinia) has carried out a book donation to the Grillitos Foundation. This initiative targets children aged 0 to 12 in various underserved regions of the country.
The donation campaign, made possible through the collaboration of all Cinia employees, has gathered a wide variety of books ranging from children’s stories and fables to educational texts on science and nature. These books will not only provide entertainment but also valuable tools for learning and personal development for the young ones.
Grillitos Foundation, renowned for its work in bringing educational and cultural resources to marginalized communities, will oversee the distribution of the books to children in areas lacking access to basic educational materials. This organization has been a beacon of hope for many families, tirelessly working to bridge the educational gap and provide opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
The book delivery has been warmly received with enthusiasm and gratitude by the children and their families. For many, it is their first opportunity to have their own book, a treasure that will allow them to explore new worlds and develop their reading skills.
INCLUSION DRONES AT PUEBLA FESTIVAL
The Name of Cinia illuminated the sky of Puebla. During the drone show that marked the conclusion of the 2024 Puebla Fair, we experienced a very special moment. One of the most memorable instances was the appearance of the silhouette of Dr. Simi, the iconic character of Farmacias Similares, which boasts over 7.000 branches in Mexico and other countries. Alongside this figure, the name ‘Cinia’ formed in the sky. The Dr. Simi dolls are handcrafted at SOLTRA GROUP (Cinia) in Puebla. It’s a socio-labor inclusion project that employs over 500 people with disabilities in Mexico and over 1.000 worldwide.
This spectacle combined technology and culture, leaving a profound impression on all of us and proudly celebrating the rich history and promising future of Puebla.
10th Anniversary Celebration of Residencia Mrs Cinia: a decade on inclusion and autonomy
In May, in an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie, the tenth anniversary of Residencia and Centro Ocupacional Doña Cinia of the SOLTRA Foundation was celebrated. This project, inaugurated in May 2014 at the former Dominicans’ facilities in La Virgen del Camino, has become a benchmark for individuals with mental illness seeking inclusion and autonomy.
The celebration day was packed with activities designed for the enjoyment of all residents and members of the center.
From an emotional gala where the effort and achievements of each user were recognized with diploma awards, to musical performances and lively dancing that sparked smiles and contagious joy, the festive spirit was present throughout. The event began with words from the residence director, Ma-
ría Dolores Santos, emphasizing the importance of effectively addressing mental illness with respect for human rights. Santos highlighted how the person-centered approach at Residencia and Centro Ocupacional Doña Cinia not only benefits those facing these challenges but also has a positive impact on their families and the community.
Tribute was paid to Iñaki Alkorta, trustee of the SOLTRA Foundation and one of the main drivers of this inclusion project, whose legacy remains alive despite his passing last September. His words resonate on this tenth anniversary: “Society is a puzzle in which we all have the right to contribute; we are not islands but part of a social fabric in which everyone must contribute.”
Residencia and Centro Ocupacional Mrs. Cinia continues to
be a model of person-centered care, demonstrating that inclusion and autonomy are achievable goals for those facing mental health challenges.
SOLTRA Foundation has made a significant difference in the lives of people with disabilities since joining the Personal Sociolaboral Insertion Pathways Program five years ago. This program, designed to enhance the employability of people with disabilities, has been an invaluable source of support and opportunities
The main tool of the Itineraries Program is its focus on personal capacity development. Through a series of key steps, the Foundation collaborates with individuals to prepare them for the workforce. The process starts with a personal interview to identify each person’s needs and expectations. From there, a personalized itinerary is created to guide the path toward inclusion.
Participants acquire personal and social knowledge and skills that prepare them for the job market, enabling them to engage in community settings. Socio-labor insertion is tailored to each individual’s capabilities.
The itineraries program is based on a robust methodology, including an individualized support plan, individual and group tutoring.
In 2023, 136 individuals participated in the Itineraries Program implemented by the SOLTRA Foundation, with 62 securing employment. These results demonstrate the value and effectiveness of this program, which has opened doors to the job market for people with disabilities.
The SOLTRA Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities and mental illness, providing the necessary frameworks to achieve their goals.
“Fly with your own wings, even if you need to lean on the wings of others.” This phrase encapsulates the symbol of our independence and ability to face challenges on our own. However, there are times when our wings feel weak or our strength falters. In those moments, it’s
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important to remember that we are not alone in this journey called life
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Isabel García: example of overcoming and determination
Isabel García Olmos (52), a member of our administration department, stands out for her determination, professionalism, and above all, her drive for self-improvement. She has been with SOLTRA for 10 years, currently in the administrative area. Previously, she worked in the wind section in Villadangos, where she handled logistics until 2018. Her efficiency and organizational skills did not go unnoticed, and in 2019 she was transferred to the automotive section in Onzonilla, participating in the pilots project. Her ability to adapt to different challenges and work environments led her to join the administration department in July 2023, where she continues to excel due to her professionalism and collaborative nature.
However, Isabel’s story goes beyond her professional career. Personally, she has practiced various sports disciplines since childhood (swimming, pilates, etc.), which have helped her improve coordination and balance difficulties she experiences. For
the past couple of years, she has discovered a new passion that allows her to explore her mental strength and drive for improvement: hiking. This interest arose thanks to her friend Susana, who along with Miguel (the association’s leader), encouraged her to join a mountain group from the Cultural and Sports Association V.A.L.E. Since then, she hasn’t stopped. Currently, she is simultaneously trekking the Camino Lebaniego and the Camino de Torres, alternating stages every weekend with her group of companions.
Each stage Isabel undertakes is a challenge of approximately 20 kilometers, and although some trails present significant difficulties, such as icy paths, she never gives up. The solidarity and support of her fellow hikers have been crucial during these times, demonstrating that camaraderie is a constant in both her personal and professional life. Isabel always dreamed of walking the Camino de Santiago upon retirement, but her recent foray into hiking has allowed
her to start fulfilling that dream sooner. Each stage is a small victory, a testament to her determination and indomitable spirit. Her story is a true example of overcoming challenges, excelling not only in her professional sphere, where her supervisors and colleagues value her extroversion, camaraderie, and professionalism, but also in her personal life, facing and overcoming challenges with a smile and a positive attitude.
An inspiration to us all, Isabel shows that with determination, support, and passion, it is possible to overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams.
1.- How did you get to know SOLTRA?
My brother studied at IES Ordoño II and was sent to do his internship at SOLTRA, which is how he first got in contact.
2.- What attracted you the most about SOLTRA for your brother´s training?
The school’s guidance team had spoken very highly of SOLTRA and all the employment opportunities it offered.
3.- At what age did your brother start working at SOLTRA? AT 19 years old.
SISTER:
Hanae Daoudi
Mohamed Amine
AGE: 23
Job: Automotive Worker
8.- What progress has he made in this time?
Before starting to work, he was very bored; now he feels fulfilled. Besides, he loves getting paid every month and having his own money.
6.- Have you got more brothers or sisters?
Yes, there are three of us in total. He is the youngest.
7.- What aspects would you highlight about SOLTRA?
The good atmosphere they have. The opportunity to feel part of something. Being treated as an equal, as one of the team at work. It is very important that they adapt the work to each person.
Great Parents
8.- What aspects would you improve at SOLTRA?
Maybe the dates for taking vacations.
9.- What is your brother´s main quality?
He is a very open and sociable person. He is handy and resourceful, quickly finding solutions to problems.
10.- What do you think SOLTRA has contributed to your family?
We are very happy. Above all, it has given us peace of mind about my brother’s future.
LAUNDRY DIVISION
At SOLTRA, we offer a professional service for washing, ironing, repairing, and renting textile garments, including pickup and delivery. Our industrial laundry in La Virgen del Camino provides a comprehensive system, supplying customers with the necessary quantities and monitoring the lifespan of garments. Founded in 2009 with around 10 employees, we have grown to 84 approximately 90% of whom have some form of disability..
In 2017, we inaugurated a new facility of 2.300 m2 equipped with advanced technology for processing hospital textiles. Our expansion has led us to clients in Galicia, Asturias, and Castilla y León. In 2024, we celebrate fifteen years of experience in the laundry industry with a strong commitment to continue working towards a more inclusive society, where every person, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to find dignified employment and lead a full and independent life.
LEONIDES
How would you define yourself? Cheerful, curious, organized
How long do you sleep? 6-7 hours
One hobby? Motor events. I love taking photos at them.
One film? Enemy at the gates
One sport? Hiking
Your favourite meal? Octopus
Anything you hate? Negative people
What do you like most about SOLTRA?
Friendship between colleagues
What would you change at SOLTRA? Transport
MAGALI PÉREZ Operator
Age? 55
How would you define yourself? Friendly and affectionate
How long do you sleep? 5 hours
One hobby? Crossword puzzles
One film? The Count of Monte Cristo
One sport? Nones, I prefer to read
Your favourite meal? Brussels sprouts
Anything you hate? Hot
What do you like most about SOLTRA?
The opportunity to continue my career
What would you change at SOLTRA? I wouldn´t change anything
Age? 53
How would you define yourself? Cheerful, hardworking and sociable
How long do you sleep? 7-8 hours
One hobby? To do spinning and zumba
One film? Bohemian Rhapsody One sport? Hiking and spinning
Your favourite meal? Stuffed sole
Anything you hate? Hypocrisy
What do you like most about SOLTRA? The opportunity to be able to work
What would you change at SOLTRA? Camaraderie
Age? 45
How would you define yourself? Sociable
How long do you sleep? 5-6 hours
One hobby? Reading
One film? Stargate One sport? Golf
Your favourite meal? Fried chicken
Anything you hate? Hypocrisy
What do you like most about SOLTRA? Camaraderie
What would you change at SOLTRA? More machinery
MONTSERRAT BRASA Operator
MARIA TERESA VIEIRA Operator
SOCIAL WORKS AND MENTAL HEALTH
M. JOSÉ MARTÍNEZ
Head of the Social Work unit at CAULE
From our Heart of Solidarity, we want to bring visibility to the breadth of work carried out by professional social workers and acknowledge the importance of their work, especially in the field of mental health. There’s nothing better than interviewing Mª José Martínez, Head of the Social Work Unit at CAULE, and getting to know the multidisciplinary team at the Mental Health Center where María José works: Paula, Iñaki, Mª Ángeles, Olvido, Verónica, and Yolanda.
María José has a career spanning more than three decades in the field of Social Work, dedicating her life to a profession that is fundamental yet often underestimated. She began her career in 1992 in the Social Action and Welfare Section, handling informational and procedural tasks. However, her true passion has always been fieldwork, which led her to request a change when the first position in a mental health team was created. As a pioneer in this area, María José played a crucial role in establishing the guidelines for multidisciplinary teams that are now working in mental health. For the past 28 years, she has led with dedication and commitment two teams at the Mental Health Center. Furthermore, her connection with the SOLTRA Foundation since its inclusion in the mental health network has been key in strengthening ties and improving care in this field.
Solidarity Heart
Mental health is a crucial aspect of your work. Could you explain to us how you approach the comprehensive care of the needs and demands of patients with mental disorders in coordination with other professionals?
We investigate, evaluate, and diagnose the psychosocial factors affecting patients’ health, as well as issues arising from their illnesses. Intervention with patients with severe mental disorders (SMD) begins with creating a social history in collaboration with the patient and their family. According to their needs, we coordinate with resources and services that can help address and meet those needs.
We develop a Shared Intervention Plan involving social, healthcare, educational, and occupational services to ensure comprehensive care and continuity of treatment, including immediate crisis intervention. To achieve this, we establish a communication system and regularly monitor the patient using email, phone calls, and meetings.
The healthcare social worker serves as a crucial link between the healthcare team and social services, knowledgeable about the resources and procedures of both systems, and participates in developing joint action protocols. We lead the coordination between the care team and the
community, especially in situations requiring intersectoral intervention such as education, employment, and legal matters. According to Guimón (2002), we are the best-prepared professionals for effectively managing community relationships.
One of the important roles of the social worker is prevention. How do you identify and manage pathological factors in the social environment of your patients to reduce the prevalence of mental disorders?
Proactive intervention models in social work begin with the study of social risks and diagnosis of existing problems, creating a work plan that integrates into the patient’s overall plan. Our roles include incorporating the social perspective into all professional and assistance activities, identifying social risk situations and factors in individuals, families, and communities, participating in the development, implementation, and evaluation of assistance processes, health programs, and service portfolios, providing guidance, psychosocial support, and counseling for patients, families, and the community, promoting access to and use of healthcare system resources, and collaborating with other healthcare systems to ensure continuity of care, facilitate communication and coordination with social services
and other systems to guarantee comprehensive care, avoiding disconnected services. We promote health promotion and prevention activities aimed at patients, families, the community, and specific groups, participate in continuous education, and collaborate on research projects on health and psychosocial factors. Finally, we record our activities, compile an annual report, and issue social reports when necessary.
We know you work with both patients and their families. What strategies do you use to support families who often feel overwhelmed by their loved ones’ situations?
Social Work intervention is both individual and familial, accompanying the patient and their family throughout the illness process. We focus on the individual, considering them capable of participating in their life plan, while reinforcing family and interpersonal bonds. Starting from a social diagnosis, we identify problems and risks affecting the patient and their family, as well as their support strengths. Our care plan aims to provide the necessary supports to improve or maintain health. It is crucial to identify family support roles and work especially with the primary caregiver, promoting emotional well-being, self-care, healthy routines, and participation in support groups.
The fight against stereotypes and social exclusion is fundamental in your work. What actions do you carry out to raise awareness among the general population about mental ill-
Solidarity Heart
nesses and promote greater inclusion of diagnosed individuals?
In all our interventions, we prioritize patient autonomy and empowerment, fostering their ability to make informed decisions and actively participate in their recovery process. This philosophy is reflected in our daily work, where we interact with a wide range of stakeholders, from patients and their families to professionals from different disciplines.
We actively participate in meetings with various organizations, including social security, government entities, and non-governmental organizations. These interactions allow us to coordinate efforts, ensure comprehensive care, and advocate for the rights and interests of our patients.
Additionally, we have a valuable team of volunteers who provide companionship and support to people with mental illness. These volunteers play a crucial role, offering not only companionship but also practical and emotional assistance, significantly contributing to the patients’ quality of life.
What skills and abilities do you consider essential for a social worker in mental health, and how have you developed these competencies throughout your career to provide effective and empathetic care?
In the field of Social Work, there are specific competencies inherent to the profession. Throughout my 30 years of professional experience, I have developed a set of essential skills and abilities. These include empathy, respect, a non-judgmental attitude, and a notable sensitivity. My communication skills, such as active listening, have been crucial, as well as my ability to work in teams, take initiative, and be creative in problem-solving. Additionally, I have honed mediation skills and proactivity in my daily work.
It is crucial to emphasize the importance of professional development and ongoing training. We must always be open to learning and reflection to adapt our perspective as societal needs change. This commitment to professional growth not only enriches our practice but also enables us to provide more effective and up-to-date care to the individuals we work with.
INCLUENCERS AT WORK CAFÉ SANTANDER
BOOK LAUNCH FOR NOELIA VALDUEZA AT SOLTRA
The Work Café Santander in León was the setting for a talk featuring Josean Idoeta, CEO of SOLTRA GROUP, and María Martín-Granizo Ferreiro, a prominent athlete, runner-up in the parasurfing world championship, and ambassador of the “Hazte Incluencer” movement.
Josean Idoeta shared with those present the mission and achievements of SOLTRA GROUP, as well as the activities of the “Become Incluencer” movement, which aims to involve people committed to equality.
María Martín-Granizo, on her part, shared her inspiring story. Despite being born with femoral agenesis, María has overcome all barriers, both physical and social, to become a prominent athlete. She recounted anecdotes from the competitions she has participated in, emphasizing that the key to her success lies in effort and perseverance.
Noelia Valdueza presented her book “Relax Manuel, everything will be fine” at Mrs. Cinia Residence and Occupational Center of the SOLTRA Foundation. In this work, Noelia shares her brave personal journey through the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
This book is not just a narrative about battling the illness, but also an inspiring testimony of personal growth. Noelia takes us by the hand through her ups and downs, sharing the attitudes, therapies, and behaviors that helped her on her path to healing. What’s most beautiful is that these lessons are not limited to cancer; they are applicable to all life situations.
Convinced that attitude can transform our emotions and affect our health, and although she never imagined becoming an author, the need to help others drove her to write this book. It offers a real, different, and positive perspective on facing cancer.
INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ON THE FUTURE OF EMPLOYMENT FOR PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES
Josean Idoeta, CEO of SOLTRA GROUP, participated as a moderator in the panel “The European Social Calendar: A Focus on Employment and Social Economy” within the program of the “1st International Congress on the Future of Employment for People with Intellectual Disabilities.” In this session, he was joined by Juan Antonio Pedreño, President of CEPES, and Víctor Meseguer, Special Commissioner for Social Economy.
The event, held at the Palace of Magdalena in Santander on May 30th and 31st, 2024, brought together over 300 professionals, representatives from public administrations, businesses, organizations from the associative movement, and individuals with intellectual disabilities. They discussed actions to promote and enhance employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.
LEISURE AN RECRETIONAL ACTIVITIES IN MENTAL HEALTH
Educators from the SOLTRA Foundation, Oscar and Andrea, participated in a talk at the facilities of FOREMCYL, an organization promoted by CC.OO. dedicated to vocational training and career guidance in Castilla y León. During this session, the educators shared their deep knowledge about leisure and free time, especially regarding individuals facing mental illnesses.
With an eager audience willing to learn, the educators explained in detail the approach and practices they use to ensure that people with mental illnesses can fully enjoy their leisure time safely and enrichingly. They emphasized the importance of inclusion, adapting activities, and providing emotional support in this context.
