New residence in Gozo to open for people with autism

by Gozo News · April 2, 2026

The Diocese of Gozo, in collaboration with the Arka Foundation, on the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, and in light of the growing need for more specialised services, has announced the launch of a new project for people with autism in Gozo.

This project consists of the construction of a residence dedicated exclusively to people with autism, and will be located in Xaghra. The land was donated to the Diocese by a benefactor.

The Diocese explained that the facility will be spread over three floors extending over a total area of ??approximately 424 square metres. This residence will be equipped with modern and adapted infrastructure to meet the different needs of the residents.

The residence will offer a wide range of services, including:

• day centre services,

• respite services,

• residential accommodation for long-term care.

In addition, the building will include several specialised therapeutic spaces, such as:

• multi-sensory rooms,

• calming rooms,

• multi-purpose halls, along with other facilities necessary to support both the personal development and well-being of those who will make use of this home.

The management and operation of this residence will be under the responsibility of the Arka Foundation, which over the last 25 years, has made a significant contribution to the field of disability in Gozo.

Its services include the operation of Dar l-Arka in Ghajnsielem, as well as two apartments in the community that offer assisted living to people who can live relatively independently with minimal support.

The Diocese said that in addition, in the coming months it is planned to open a third apartment based on the same ‘supported independent living’ model, which will be able to accommodate six more people.

The Diocese of Gozo, together with the Board of Directors of the Arka Foundation, said they are ”fully committed to starting the implementation of this project in the shortest possible time, so that those who need these services can benefit from them in an effective, dignified and sustainable manner.”