“It is all about relationships. Relationships are the critical resource we have.”
These powerful words by social entrepreneur and policy advisor Hilary Cottam during her 2015 TED Talk, capture the essence of a transformative approach to social services. Cottam challenged the world to abandon outdated, transactional models of care in favour of strategies rooted in human connection and meaningful participation.
This vision will take centre stage at the 33rd European Social Services Conference (ESSC) in Aarhus, Denmark, from 22-25 June 2025. We are delighted to share that Cottam, now a leading proponent for the ‘Relational Welfare’ approach, has been announced as our first keynote speaker. Entitled ‘Where Care Meets Tech,’ the event will bring together leaders and innovators to explore how personalisation and technology can transform the future of social care.
Super Early Bird Registrations Now Open!
Earlier this month, Super Early Bird Registrations were launched for the conference, offering a 10% discount to those who register early. Register before 31 December to take advantage of this special pricing!
What can conference delegates expect?
The 4-day conference programme will offer a range of sessions, including Plenaries, Interactive Workshops, Thematic Panel Discussions and a Walking Practice Fair. Additional keynote speakers for the conference plenary sessions will be announced in the coming months. Meanwhile, applications for the conference technical programme are currently being reviewed by our expert ‘Advisory Committee.’ We received submissions from over 20 countries showcasing a wide range of innovative projects in the areas of relational welfare and welfare technology.
To provide delegates with a hands-on experience, our conference hosts, the City of Aarhus and the Central Region of Denmark have organised study visits to local social projects. Aarhus has long been recognised as an innovative city, known for implementing forward-thinking initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of its residents. One of the projects delegates will be invited to visit is the ‘Staircase to Staircase’ programme, which applies a Relational Welfare approach to work with families in Gellerup-Toveshøj, an area known for high crime rates and social challenges, to create new opportunities for its residents.
Another space that delegates will be able to visit is an interactive welfare technology hub. At DokkX, citizens can get advice and guidance so that they can acquire the right technologies and tools to support an independent and active life. Conference delegates can choose from nine different study visits.
Looking forward
The 33rd ESSC promises to be an exciting and inspiring event, offering a platform for thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners to collaborate and explore how we can reimagine future social services. By focusing on relational welfare and the role of welfare technology in social care and social services, the conference will spark meaningful discussions and provide valuable insights into creating more inclusive, personalised services. With an engaging programme, renowned speakers, and study visits, the ESSC 2025 will be an event not to be missed. Be sure to register today to take advantage of early bird pricing and join us in Aarhus for this transformative event!
