Communities that Care,
Systems that Work
This year's theme explores how resilient communities and effective public systems can together build a more inclusive, just, and sustainable Europe — placing people at the heart of every social service.
Why this theme?
Europe is undergoing a period of profound social and demographic transformation that is redefining the role of social services and care systems. People are living longer, there is a growing need to improve social cohesion, address unwanted loneliness, and manage pressures on welfare systems to guarantee inclusion and care. Changes in family structures require new responses based on prevention, community participation, and shared social responsibility.
In this context, community action is gaining increasing relevance in European social policies. Social services play a key role in facilitating, supporting, connecting, and leading community dynamics, promoting approaches that overcome fragmentation between administrations and sectors, and fostering collaboration across health, housing, education, employment, and civil society.
Various European and local initiatives, such as child-friendly and age-friendly cities, compassionate cities, and integrated social, health, and housing care models, are demonstrating the potential of community action to build more resilient and sustainable welfare systems.
ESSC 2026 aims to contribute to this strategic debate by bringing together policymakers, social services professionals, third sector organisations and civil society, researchers, and community actors to explore how to strengthen caring communities and promote the well-being of all people.
What is ESSC 2027 about
Explore the role of the community as a key space for prevention and social and emotional well-being.
Promote shared social responsibility approaches in care that integrate public administrations, communities, businesses, organisations, and informal networks.
Analyse the role of public policies as enablers of community networks across Europe.
Identify strategies to reduce barriers to participation and strengthen the sense of belonging within communities, recognising volunteering as an effective means of building connections, trust, and mutual support.
Reflect on the ethics of care and intergenerational solidarity as principles for sustainable welfare systems.
Seven areas shaping the programme
Each area explores a distinct dimension of community-centred social services, together building a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing European welfare systems.
Prevention and Early Intervention through Community Action
Strategies that place the community at the centre of promoting social inclusion, well-being, and the creation of inclusive environments.
Topics include- Child-friendly territories and programmes
- Age-friendly and longevity-friendly cities
- Compassionate cities initiatives
- Community programmes for mental health and family support
Shared Social Responsibility in Care
New forms of organisational development combining public, community, and family action to ensure the sustainability of care systems.
Topics include- Public policy frameworks for integrated social and health care
- Inclusive communities and coordination models
- Community support and care networks
- Gender-sensitive approaches in care programmes
Organisation of Care in the Community
Organising care from a territorial and community perspective, ensuring the inclusion and participation of all people.
Topics include- Removing barriers to community participation
- Child-friendly social services policies and programmes
- Inclusion of older people and persons with disabilities
- Community support models and citizen participation
Public Policies to Strengthen Community Networks
The key role of public administrations in promoting community-based care ecosystems at local, regional, and national level.
Topics include- Local and regional community action policies
- Collaborative governance models
- Territorial social innovation strategies
- Innovative funding models
Sense of Belonging and Social Cohesion
How cohesive communities strengthen collective well-being and prevent exclusion across generations and social groups.
Topics include- Social cohesion models
- Labour market integration for young people
- Practices of intergenerational solidarity
Ethics of Care and Intergenerational Solidarity
The ethical and cultural dimension of care as a foundation for more just, supportive, and sustainable societies.
Topics include- Ethical principles in care policies
- Intergenerational cooperation initiatives
- New forms 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 in terms of inclusion, digital skills, and equitable access. A people-centred and ethical approach is essential to ensure inclusive and resilient welfare systems.
- 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
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