This year marks ten years since the opening of NECI’s residential home – a significant milestone. The home provides full-time care for some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community, offering not just accommodation, but stability, dignity and a place they can truly call home.
NECI is a place filled with warmth, energy and purpose – where young people and adults with additional needs are supported, encouraged and celebrated for who they are. It is an environment built not just on care, but on respect, kindness and love.
Founded in 1991 in Praia da Luz, NECI began with a vision – and very limited resources. Its founders, Maria Eduarda de Oliveira Santos and José Manuel Campos, recognised a profound gap in support for children and young people with additional needs in the western Algarve.
In those early years, working from modest and often inadequate facilities, they persevered with determination and heart. What started with just five young people has grown into one of the most important support organisations in the region – a testament to their vision and resilience.
Today, under the guidance of its director, Ilídio José Barata Dias, NECI is led with a hands-on, approachable style that is reflected throughout the organisation. Supported by a dedicated team of educators, therapists and care staff, the centre provides not only essential services, but a real sense of community for those who attend. NECI serves families across Lagos, Vila do Bispo and Aljezur, supporting individuals from early childhood right through to adulthood – a rare continuity of care that is invaluable to families.
Teachers and specialists work both within the centre and in local primary schools, helping children with additional needs integrate into mainstream education wherever possible.
Daily life at NECI is active, engaging and full of variety. From creative workshops and life skills programmes to sport and social activities, each day is designed to build confidence and independence. Across the Algarve, NECI’s buses are a familiar sight – transporting students to activities such as horse riding, swimming, group outings and community events.
One family told me, “For us, NECI is more than a service provider, it is a place where our son is truly welcomed, where he grows, and where we feel supported as a family.”
Another story tells of a young woman who had been living in extreme isolation. Through NECI’s intervention, she and her family were supported into stable housing, and today she participates confidently in programmes, developing communication skills and expressing herself through creative activities such as dance.
Yet despite its importance, NECI now faces its greatest challenge. Demand for residential care continues to grow, and there is currently a significant waiting list. Plans are already in place for a new residential facility that would accommodate an additional 30 people – a project that would transform lives across the western Algarve.
The vision is there. The need is clear. What is required now is community support.
Because NECI is not just a facility – it is a lifeline.
How You Can Support NECI
Volunteer
Offer your time, skills or support at events and activities.
Fundraise
Local groups, businesses and individuals can organise events, coffee mornings, sponsored activities or community initiatives to help raise vital funds for NECI’s new residential project.
Make a Donation
Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a real difference. Bank details for Donations:
IBAN Montepio:
PT50 0036 0179 9910 0036 9061 9
IBAN Novo Banco:
PT50 0007 0000 0046 1675 7692 3
IRS Consignment
Support NECI through your IRS at no cost to yourself.
Partner or Sponsor
Businesses can support through partnerships, sponsorship and ongoing collaboration.
NECI – Núcleo Especializado para o Cidadão Incluso
Rua da NECI, Montinhos da Luz 8600-119 Luz, Lagos
+351 282 788 692
