Registration for the 2024 European Social Services Conference (ESSC) is now open!  An engaging programme focused on the co-creation of future social services is promised, with an objective to inspire innovation and new ways of thinking to enhance personalisation in social services. Key to integrating currently siloed services, is collaboration and digital development. Register now to join the conversation and learn about new initiatives to advance social services that you can implement in your own community to improve the lives of people in the locality. Delegates who register before 31st December will be eligible for a 10% discount on the conference fee.

Discover the programme

Over 80 submissions have already been received from organisations in 21 countries - testament to the hard work and creativity of forward-thinking social services leaders working to improve the planning and delivery of social services. The deadline to submit a proposal to contribute to the conference programme is 1st December.

Delegates will be able to discover a variety of approaches being used internationally to further local social inclusion in urban areas, the innovative strategies being implemented to reform the workforce and the different ways organisations are using technology to promote digital social inclusion.

Meet the Speakers

During the conference plenary sessions, delegates will hear from international keynote speakers who bring a wealth of knowledge on collaborative strategies to advance social services. 3 plenary speakers are already confirmed:

• Cormac Russel is an internationally recognised expert in Asset-Based Community Development (ABDC). His work has brought him to 35 countries where he has trained different organisations in community-based approaches.
• Siobhan Maclean is a social worker who through her trainings and writings, supports students and social workers, with a focus on critical reflection and creativity.
• Dr. Cherrie Short is a Senior Fellow for Global and Community Strategy at New York University. Her academic work focuses on social services transformation and her intervention will focus on technology and AI in social services.

Visit Antwerp

The City of Antwerp looks forward to welcoming delegates to their beautiful city in June 2024. The city’s  Social Services Department works on many innovative projects to support the inhabitants of the city, combating poverty and promoting well-being; with fostering community at the heart of all they do. Tom Meeuws, the Alderman responsible for social services invites delegates to come and learn more about the interesting work taking place in Antwerp’s neighbourhoods. “We closely collaborate with NGOs and ESN member, the Association of Flemish Cities and Muncipalities (VVSG). This conference  is an absolute must for every country with strong and innovative social practices to share. Also, you can subscribe for some very interesting location visits in the city of Antwerp across strong social work, city innovation, and parental support programmes,” he said.

Interested? Register before 31st December to take advantage of a 10% early bird discount on delegate fees. Please get in touch with us at conference@esn-eu.org if you have any questions!