An ESN report with models and practices of effective and efficient social services
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Across the European Union, the rate of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2013 stood at 24.5% (according to Eurostat). This challenging socio-economic context is often coupled with decreasing resources at all government levels. In such an environment, social planning becomes a key component for local authorities to design and implement effective and efficient services to address the needs of vulnerable groups.
Following the European Social Network (ESN) seminar in November last year, when we brought together over 80 representatives from local and regional authorities to exchange knowledge and experience on this field, we are publishing a report featuring different social planning processes, models and tools from various European countries.
Without a unique definition of social planning, the report explores common features of the planning process, which often include the need for a holistic approach (from monitoring to evaluation), mapping the needs of the population through data collection and aggregation, and the involvement of multiple stakeholders; these topics are then illustrated through practices gathered from 10 countries.
Collecting and using data effectively
The collection, analysis and availability of accurate data are fundamental for the implementation of successful social policies and services. Data can support practitioners and policy-makers in their daily work and become a driver for change.
Structuring the planning process
Having a well-designed sequence of planning phases provides a structured framework that can consider all relevant aspects and stakeholders. However, social planning phases depend considerably on the kind of service and the user group for whom services are planned.
Tools for better social planning
Tools aimed at local social services planning may have a variety of purposes and address different issues. Some tools may be designed and applied in a specific field and for a particular user group, whilst others may be used at managerial level for enhancing administration procedures.
Building partnerships across sectors
Local authorities play a crucial role in leading and coordinating the social planning process and the key partners to ensure that social planning is succesful. Working with stakeholders may take numerous forms and include cross-sector cooperation between professionals and the development of platforms for the engagement of users and the local community.
Resources
- Read the full report
- Watch video presentations from the seminar