| Popis: |
This chapter describes the evolution of social services in Europe, setting the picture in the frame of the changing profile of European societies and demographics, on one hand; and the changed configuration and role of public administration, on the other hand. Changes to welfare systems in Europe have occurred at different levels, including the mission and goals of welfare institutions, the actors providing social services, the arrangements for the delivery of social services, and the funding of services. In terms of mission and goals, the trend has been away from social assistance and toward emphasizing social inclusion. In terms of governance and actors within the welfare system, the tendency has been from public entities to an emphasis on hybrid organizations and public–private partnerships. In terms of the arrangements for service provision, the trend has been from cash allowances toward forms of user involvement, co-design, and co-production. Finally, in terms of funding, we observe a trend from “generous” public funding to a mixing of public and private sources, a general fragmentation, and, often, an overall reduction in the funding of welfare. |
