Innovation in social services saves lives, rebuilds communities, and drives lasting change. Yet all too often, the extraordinary people and organisations behind that work go unrecognised. The European Social Services Awards (ESSA) exists to change that. The 8th edition of the Awards will take place on 19-20 November in Rome, hosted by Lazio Region, and will be Europe's premier stage for celebrating excellence. 

Recognising work that truly matters 

Social services are on the frontline of society's most pressing challenges: supporting individuals, families and communities through hardship, crisis, and change. ESSA, organised by the European Social Network (ESN), shine a powerful spotlight on the workers, planners, funders, and practitioners who are delivering outstanding results every day. Recognising this work is a statement that innovation and excellence in social services belong at the heart of European public life. 

Discovering groundbreaking approaches across Europe 

Every edition of ESSA uncovers bold, pioneering approaches that are redefining what social services can achieve. From integrated care models to transformative inclusion programmes, the Awards surface the ideas that deserve to travel further and faster across our sector. ESN believes that celebrating success accelerates progress because, when innovative practice is visible, it becomes replicable. The lessons learned by one organisation can strengthen services for thousands of people elsewhere. 

Stay tuned: the call for applications will open soon 

ESSA is a place for peer exchange, mutual learning, and genuine collaboration across Europe's social services community. Don’t miss out! Visit the website and subscribe to the newsletter to make sure you receive all the updates.