Support for better social services for the most vulnerable groups in Kosovo

PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR

Rahel Kahlert

PROJECT TEAM AT THE EUROPEAN CENTRE

Sonila Danaj, Kai Leichsenring, Veronica Sandu

EXTERNAL PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR

Trim Kabashi, Save the Children Kosovo (Kosovo)

BACKGROUND

In 2009, the responsibility for delivery of social and family services was transferred from the central government to the municipalities. To support the process of decentralization, a strategy was developed in 2012 to be implemented in 2013–2017.

AIMS

The overall objective of the project was to contribute to the effective transformation of the social service system in Kosovo – focusing on improved quality, availability and sustainability of local social and community-based service delivery for children and vulnerable people living at social risk. Central, municipal and non-state actors including NGOs and social enterprises engaged collaboratively in community-based social service delivery. Municipalities implemented local action plans, with the support of licensed social service providers, and allocated resources for their realization.

METHODS

  • Develop a capacity advancement system to train stakeholders in effectively supporting the transformation process
  • Provide technical assistance for the establishment of sustainable partnerships and increased capacity for community-based social service delivery
  • Provide financial support to social service providers including day care and home care services

ACTIVITIES/MILESTONES

The European Centre guided or participated in the following tasks:

  • A Situational Analysis of social service provision to the vulnerable and at risk at the municipal level:
    • Research the type and availability of social services compared to beneficiaries’ needs (“social space map”)
    • Review the legal and fiscal frameworks for community-based services
    • Assess capacities and challenges of social service providers
  • Establish a tripartite stakeholder participatory forum to support the transformation process
    • Organize workshops and conferences
    • Coach and monitor action plan development
  • Develop the capacity of various stakeholders through:
    • The development of generic and specific social service training modules (Training of Trainers)
    • The development of models on utilization of new financial, budgeting
    • advocacy
  • Develop a functional monitoring & evaluation (M&E) model
    • Develop and implement an M&E training module
    • Provide guidance and mentorship
    • Develop a policy brief

The European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research supports the Sustainable Development Goals

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UN SDG No Poverty
UN SDG Reduced Inequalities
UN SDG Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions