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Social services play a crucial role in supporting individuals and communities across Europe, but ensuring consistent quality standards remains a challenge. The European Social Network (ESN) is leading efforts to develop a renewed European Social Services Quality Framework, designed to address current challenges and set clear, practical, and measurable quality standards.
What does this briefing cover?
Why a new framework is needed – examining the limitations of the 2010 EU Voluntary Framework and why many countries have not adopted it.
Key principles of quality social services – including human rights, person-centered care, community-based support, safety, and effective management.
Draft quality standards – structured using I-Statements and We-Statements to reflect the perspectives of both service users and providers.
Research & development process – insights from 18 countries, incorporating feedback from public authorities, quality agencies, researchers, and people using social services.
Implementation recommendations – practical steps providers can take to meet the proposed standards.
Next steps – how the framework will be finalized in 2025 and its expected impact on social services across Europe.
This briefing provides essential insights for public regulators, policymakers, service providers, and quality assurance
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