Halle (dpa/sa) – The state of Saxony-Anhalt supported around 11,700 people in “special circumstances” last year. That is 200 more than in the previous year, said a spokeswoman for the State Statistical Office in Halle on Monday. The services are aimed, among other things, at sick people or people with disabilities. However, the support according to Articles 5 to 9 of the Twelfth Book of the Social Security Code could also be due to social problems.

By far the largest part, more than 80 percent, was accounted for by people in need of care. Depending on their condition, they were cared for in hospital or at home. Almost 17 percent of people in need of help turned to the authorities because of “particular social difficulties”. Help can be granted here if the current living conditions require it. The help can include temporary help in the household or help with the financing of funerals.