The Government of Saint Lucia has announced new social protection and inclusion measures to support vulnerable people, reduce crime, and boost national development through targeted investments.
While presenting the 2026/2027 Budget in the House of Assembly, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre restated the government’s commitment to social equity. He highlighted current programmes and new initiatives to make sure everyone in society is included.
One important measure is the Public Assistance Programme (PAP), which gives cash support to about 3,500 households in need. The Ministry of Equity is reviewing who receives help to keep the programme effective and responsive.
The government is also focusing on reducing crime and violence, especially among at-risk youth. The Prime Minister said the Ministry of Equity is working with the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund, NGOs, and faith-based groups to create community-based solutions. These efforts include non-legal strategies to lower crime, particularly among young men. The government will also bring back youth and sports clubs to help prevent antisocial behaviour and encourage positive activities after school.
Gun violence is still a serious problem. Pierre acknowledged its impact, saying, “Gun violence is having extremely negative effects on communities.” He confirmed that the government will step up targeted actions by working with community police and partner organisations.
The Prime Minister also shared plans to develop a “silver economy” and improve care services. He said the Ministry of Equity and the Ministry of Health will finish building a home for elderly people in Soufrière and train healthcare workers to care for conditions like dementia. More support will go to organisations that help people with Alzheimer’s and similar conditions.
Another important part of the government’s plan is legislative reform. The government will review laws about the age of sexual consent and the definition of childhood to make them more consistent. Pierre also said there are plans to update the Adoption Act to simplify and make the process more inclusive, especially for people with disabilities.
The Prime Minister called the creation of a National Disability Registry a “key development”. He said it will provide reliable data to support policymaking, service delivery and national budgeting. He also mentioned that work is ongoing to update disability laws to meet international standards, supporting equality, dignity and accessibility.
Other priorities for the next financial year include launching the disability registry nationwide, finalising updated laws, establishing an accessible department for people with disabilities, and expanding social protection services.
The Prime Minister said funding has increased from $7.5 million in 2025/2026 to $9 million in 2026/2027, representing a 19.3% increase. He explained that this shows a stronger focus on social investment and community support.
Cultural and national institutions will also receive additional funding, including the Saint Lucia National Trust and the National Archives, to strengthen national identity and heritage. In the justice sector, ongoing support for the Legal Aid Authority will help make sure everyone has fair access to justice.
More resources will go to vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and the elderly. The Prime Minister said, “38% of the funding will be allocated to the Department of Equity… to provide relief and support to the homes that cater to the elderly.” This includes facilities like Marian Home and the St Lucia Home.
The government is supporting local youth and sports councils, as well as national groups like the Cadet Corps and the Scouts. The Prime Minister called this “a deliberate policy investing in the social fabric of the nation”.