Press Release Social Services to Member States: invest in the social recovery too

Press Release Social Services to Member States: invest in the social recovery too

The 13 key European Networks with responsibility for social services request Member States and the European Commission to invest in social services to promote an inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we invite Member States to use the EU Budget and the Recovery and Resilience Fund to help those who have been hit hardest by the crisis, with whom social services often work: older persons, persons with disabilities, children and young people at risk of neglect or abuse, people at risk of poverty, homeless persons, migrants, and women suffering from domestic violence.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the provision of essential care and support to millions of people in Europe, affecting the quality of life and human rights enjoyment of the millions supported. This has been particularly visible in nursing homes but has also had a devastating impact on many other forms of social support. As the sector is a major employer, it is also important to remember the hard work of the over 11 million professionals -5% of the EU workforce- involved in social service provision across the continent, often in very difficult conditions and putting their own health at risk.

The EU Budget and the Recovery and Resilience Facility provide opportunities for Member States to invest in social services and build up their resilience. However, our members on the ground highlight that this is not necessarily being the case and infrastructure is being prioritised over personal social inclusion programmes. This is partly due to lack of consultation with regional and local public social services and non-profit social service providers.

Read the full press release here.