In pursuit of modernisation, social services across Europe are actively embarking on a journey of digital transformation of their systems. This endeavour involves harnessing technology and digitalisation to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.

In 2023, the European Social Services Conference (ESSC), organised by ESN, gathered representatives from public authorities with responsibility for social services, third sector and industry partners discussed compelling examples of how this transformation can be achieved, while also engaging in discussions on the remaining challenges that need to be addressed.

The implementation of a standardised data-sharing system across departments and institutions emerged as a crucial factor. Such a system would facilitate the establishment of transparent and secure processes, establishing trust and empowerment for citizens navigating social services.

So, this Podcast episode aims to focus on the integration case management in social services, in terms of enhancing efficiency, collaboration, and overall service delivery, and generally how technology advancements can facilitate decision-making, resource allocation, and personalised care plans, can enhance social services and people working in the care sector.

Speakers:

• Antero Lehmuskoski, Chief Specialist at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Finland

• Alfred Grixti, CEO at the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), Malta

• Presented by Eleni Kefallinou, European Social Network

Publication: Partnerships for Social Inclusion - Integrated Minimum Income and Social Services Programmes | ESN

Article: https://www.esn-eu.org/news/digitalisation-and-tech-transform-social-services

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Last November, the 2023 edition of the European Social Services Awards was revolved around the theme of ‘Person-centred Care’ and brought together organisations and people that seek to provide care which is centred around the person, promoting coordination among services and professionals, fostering independence, and promoting full inclusion in communities.

Annually organised by ESN, these awards highlight successful new approaches and the continuous impactful work of public social services. Beyond recognition, the awards offer a platform for exchange and mutual learning, contributing to the enhancement of social work policies and practices.

Building on this theme, this episode we will discuss about the broader spectrum of person-centered care, extending its relevance to issues like social isolation in rural communities, focusing on innovative interventions.

Rural loneliness is a notable concern impacting numerous individuals in the countryside and can influence mental health, overall well-being, and quality of life, especially for the most vulnerable groups of people.

Join our discussion with Ann Osborn, C.E.O. Rural Coffee Caravan in United King-dom, and Igone Arrieta, Administrative Assistant for Social Services at City Council of Churriana de la Vega - Department of Social Services, Spain, as we explore innovative interventions and person-centred care initiatives against loneliness.

Further resources:

Articles: EU Ministers call for a transition towards person-centred and community-based care throughout life

Report: 2023 European Social Services Awards, Promoting Person-centred Care

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As we approach the European Parliament elections, this Podcast episode will focus on the key priorities for social services that we would like the next European Parliament and European Commission to take up.

We recently published a briefing with proposals for policy initiatives on social inclusion and social services to future Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and lead candidates for the European Commission Presidency. The briefing, which is based on an analysis of the answers to a questionnaire submitted to ESN member organisations, proposes European political parties three key actions they can include in their programmes to strengthen social inclusion related to:

• social services financing,

• quality, and;

• the workforce.

Join our discussion with Kathleen Wabrowetz, head of the International Affairs Department at the Association for Public and Private Welfare, in Germany, and Arnaud Lopez, member of the Board of ANDASS (National Association of Social and Health Director), in France, as we discuss these points in detail and explore how their national experiences can be relevant at European level too.

Further resources:

Articles:

• Will Europe’s political parties deliver for social services?

Briefing: Stronger Social Services - A Better Europe

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