We have completed the formalities of a form of social sponsorship that we are proud of and that is known as “Quinta Essência - Qe Sintra”, the aim of which is to maximise the autonomy and social integration of the mentally handicapped. Qe Sintra will be a new private site for the mentally handicapped, over the age of 16, and it will include teaching and residential centres, covering a total area of 15 thousand m2.

The teaching centre is an innovative approach to the autonomy, integration and dignity of the mentally handicapped. After assessing the individual profile of each user, an Individual Development Programme is defined, lasting a year, geared to developing personal, social and professional skills. Skills are developed in artistic workshops using a system of simulators for vocational activities involving companies from a wide range of economic sectors.

The residential centre is there to assist those attending the IDPs who can live-in permanently or temporarily, depending on needs and the length of attendance. The residence service may also be used occasionally for holidays or leisure breaks.
Qe Sintra also runs an important research and development project that involves scientific and technological partners, as well as Danish and Belgian institutions, for reflection on experiences and results. Qe Sintra has training programmes for parents, technicians and other agents connected in some way with handicap issues.
SUMOL+COMPAL is one of the supporters of the “social grant” of Qe Sintra in recognising the innovative nature of the concept, the excellence of the management team led by João Ribeiro Ferreira as well as the social relevance of the project.

Also in recognition of the need for social sponsorship, we are founders of the Oeiras Solidária programme that involves the work and skills of a large number of companies located in the Municipality of Oeiras and the respective Municipal Council. Under this programme, SUMOL+COMPAL is particularly involved in the project to prevent alcohol abuse. Our participation is due to our common interest in warning young people in this municipality of the problems resulting from the excessive consumption of alcohol.

We are also involved in technological sponsorship in our partnership with IBET – Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica. This is a major relationship for the development of new SUMOL+COMPAL projects.