Why
Participate?
Come and join us in shaping the future of social services across Europe and further afield!
How to apply?
The 35th ESSC welcomes contributions for presentations exploring how resilient communities and effective public systems can work together to build a more inclusive, just, and sustainable Europe — placing people at the heart of every social service.
You may apply under one of the seven topics of interest per application, and each organisation may submit a maximum of two applications. Even if your application is relevant for more than one topic, you are asked to select the topic most relevant to your application.
Please read the topic descriptions carefully for more details and relevant examples.
Key rules
One topic per applicationSelect the topic most relevant to your proposal, even if it touches on multiple areas.
Maximum two applications per organisationEach organisation may submit no more than two separate proposals.
Read topic descriptions carefullyEach topic includes a description and relevant examples to help you choose the right fit.
Seven areas shaping the programme
Organisation of Care in the Community
This area will explore how to organise care from a territorial and community perspective, ensuring the inclusion and participation of all people. Topics may include:
- Removing barriers to community participation
- Child-focused and child-friendly social services policies and programme development
- Promoting social inclusion of older people, persons with disabilities, and other groups through community-based support programmes
- Tackling loneliness and social isolation
Shared Social Responsibility in Care
The sustainability of care systems requires new forms of organisational development that combine public, community, and family action. This area will address:
- Public policy frameworks for integrated social and health care
- Inclusive communities
- Coordination models between social services, housing, and health
- Community support and care networks
- Gender-sensitive approaches in care and support programmes
Prevention and Early Intervention through Community Action
This area will address strategies that place the community at the centre of promoting social inclusion, well-being, and the creation of inclusive environments. It may include initiatives and programmes at national, regional or local levels that are:
- Child-friendly
- Age-friendly or longevity-friendly
- Compassionate cities
- Community initiatives for mental health, family support, social and emotional well-being
Public Policies to Strengthen Community Networks
Public administrations play a key role in promoting community-based care and support ecosystems. This area will analyse:
- Local and regional community action policies
- Collaborative governance models
- Territorial social innovation strategies
- Innovative funding models
Sense of Belonging and Social Cohesion
Cohesive communities strengthen collective well-being and prevent situations of exclusion. This area will explore initiatives related to:
- Social cohesion and community-building models promoting participation, active citizenship and volunteering
- Social and labour market integration programmes for young people, considering origin, age, and gender
- Preventing discrimination and promoting inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities
- Strengthening neighbourhood and local community networks
Ethics of Care and Intergenerational Solidarity
This area will address the ethical and cultural dimensions of care as a foundation for more just and supportive societies. Topics include:
- Ethical principles in care policies, with people at the centre
- Intergenerational cooperation initiatives that strengthen community ties
- New innovative forms and ideas of mutual support within communities
Digitally Inclusive Social Services
Digitalisation is reshaping social services in Europe, improving accessibility, efficiency, and the personalisation of care. However, it also raises key challenges regarding inclusion, digital skills, and equitable access. A people-centred and ethical approach is essential in the digitalisation process to ensure inclusive and resilient welfare systems. This area will explore:
- Digitalisation of social services: integration of programmes, electronic records, and person-centred care
- Artificial intelligence and data analysis in care: personalisation of support and resource optimisation
- Digital divide and social inclusion: equitable access, digital skills development, and addressing barriers for vulnerable groups
- Ethics, governance, and community participation: digital rights, responsible data use, and co-creation of services
Open to social services leaders across Europe
ESSC 2027 will bring together leaders in social services to inspire ideas on the design and delivery of resilient social services systems. Contribute to the Conference and make your work and experience part of this edition's discussions.
Proposals are accepted for all population groups with whom social services work. We encourage proposals from:
- Social Services leaders, professionals, practitioners, managers, and directors within associations or public authorities
- Public authorities (local, regional, national)
- Researchers and academics
- Third sector organisations and services providers
- Service user-led projects and service user representatives
- International institutions and funding bodies
This Call for Proposals is not open to private companies. Private companies are invited to participate in the programme as official Conference partners.
Find out more about partnership opportunities here →
Please follow these steps to submit your proposal
- Sign in or create an account.
- Once signed in, visit the ESSC 2027 Home Page.
- Click on the button "Submit Application" at the top of the page.