Aim. The purpose of the considerations is to reflect on the readiness of the inhabitants (and their families) in the lignite mining area to become actively involved in the process of the transition away from coal. These considerations are based on research carried out in the Turoszów region and are intended to establish an image of the lives of inhabitants and their families Methodology. The research was carried out by means of the diagnostic survey method with the use of an interview questionnaire containing 39 open and closed questions, as well as statistical methods enabling the analysis of the empirical material gathered. Results. The basic objectives of the coal transformation process are presented, together with an indication of conditions for using the support proposed by the European Union for potentially affected regions. In this context, the potential (human capital) of the studied inhabitants of Bogatynia was characterised, together with the external conditions (elements of local and supralocal policy), attitudes, beliefs, and axiological references reflected in the way the inhabitants perceive the coal transformation process. Conclusions. The inhabitants of the Turoszów region, on the verge of the transition away from, need support (both financial and educational) to enable them and their families to adapt to the change dictated by the coal transition process in a way that is beneficial to both the individual and the local community as a whole.