Social Care in Times of Crisis Conference Outcome

Social Care in Times of Crisis

Conference Outcomes

"Social Care in times of Crisis" involved representatives of EU institutions, governments and civil society organisations discussing the social consequences of the economic and financial crisis affecting millions of citizens throughout the European Union. Particular attention was paid to the vulnerable groups in society in need of social services and care. This included social care for unemployed and the working poor, migrants and refugees, people living with diseases and disabilities, disadvantaged young and old people living in isolation, victims of abuse and neglect, victims of crime and human trafficking, people experiencing poverty and social exclusion, people experiencing loss from natural and man-made disasters, and others.
This conference also discussed how providers of support and care could respond to increasing demands and pressure and how to prepare for coming years with high demand on social services, and the increasing need for smart, innovative ways of providing care.

The first panel: "Mind the Gap!" detailed how an increasing number of vulnerable people were falling through the gaps of public and private service systems. It also looks at different ways civil society organisations could address these gaps.

During the second panel: "Does Europe Care?" - representatives of EU institutions discussed efforts and plans on how EU and national governments could sustain care and support for people in need against austerity measures, cuts in national budgets and public services.

The final panel: "A Way Forward?" - focused on new and innovative ways of providing and sustaining services in the social sector.

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