Co-creation is central to the future of social services in Europe. With this in mind, almost 700 delegates from around the world met in Antwerp, Belgium, in June to explore ways to co-create community-based social services at the 32nd edition of the European Social Services Conference (ESSC).
Key figures from the European Commission (EC), including Nicolas Schmit, Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Katarina Ivanković Knežević, Director for Social Rights and Inclusion at the Directorate General for Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion, and Nathalie Berger, Director at the General Directorate for Structural Reform Support played a pivotal role at the forum.
Make care in the EU more available, accessible and with better quality
Co-creation within social services is about ensuring every person’s voice is heard, particularly those from vulnerable groups. The European Commission has a key role to play in the co-creation process. A prime example is the European Care Strategy, which was discussed in detail during the Conference.
In his opening remarks, Commissioner Schmit emphasised that social services are contributors to social stability in our society, highlighting the importance of quality care and improved working conditions in long-term care. "Co-creation is essential to ensure that services reflect the needs and voices of everyone, particularly the most vulnerable," said Commissioner Schmit.
This was echoed by Dana Carmen Bachmann, Head of Unit for Social Protection at the Directorate General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, who highlighted that a good long-term care system is underpinned by a well-supported and resilient workforce. In their efforts to do so, Ms Bachmann announced a future European conference to discuss Member States' implementation of the Care Strategy.
Alfonso Lara Montero, CEO of ESN, underscored the need to develop a local social services workforce strategy. Mr Montero pinpointed five essential pillars: workforce planning, workforce development, the role of technology, promoting well-being, and ensuring equality and diversity. An equal partnership approach to co-production is key for the future of social services, he said.
EU financial support for social services
Investing in people is synonymous with investing in quality services and support. Recognising this important principle, the European Union has allocated a significant budget of €100 billion to the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) for the current EU funding period 2021-2027. This confirms the EU's commitment to supporting and actively transforming social services.
Nathalie Berger, Director at DG Reform, emphasised at the conference the EU's commitment to enhancing the quality and delivery of social services across European countries. “We provide support to Member States to design reforms that improve social services. In this co-creation process, we collaborate closely with both service providers and beneficiaries, ensuring their active involvement in implementation”, Ms Berger explained.
Adding to this, Katarina Ivanković Knežević, Director for Social Rights and Inclusion at DG EMPL, highlighted the need for a cultural shift in how social services are perceived and delivered. “There must be a culture of understanding from the perspective of people using services. Listening, understanding, and willingness to act are essential. Silos exist almost everywhere, and a significant cultural transformation is needed,” Ms Knezevic underscored at a final panel.
What next?
In the aftermath of June’s critical European elections and Hungary's taking over the EU presidency, ESN remains committed to its mission. We will continue working in close collaboration with the EU to advance social services and champion co-creation as a crucial part of this process.