The modern world is faced with an array of complex and interrelated challenges that are posing significant obstacles to social services. One of the key issues facing social services today is the increasing demand for support from vulnerable groups in society, including older people and youngsters. The rising rates of poverty, loneliness among demented older people living at home, and mental illness among youngsters have all placed an enormous burden on social services, making it more challenging for them to meet the needs of those who require their assistance.

In addition, social services are facing a range of structural challenges that are making it more difficult for them to provide effective support. These include a tight labour market, high labour mobility, and high workload, which have all made it harder to recruit and retain staff. Compounding these challenges is the fact that people don't trust the government, and the arrangements put in place by the national and local governments need to be revised.