Clients’ Perspectives on Integrated Care between Social Work and Financial- and Employment Services: A Case Study in the Netherlands

Abstract

It is often the case that distinct social services work independently of each other, and by providing integrative services this can be prevented. This study focuses on integrated care between the social service fields of social work and financial- and employment services in the Netherlands. This article examines client’s perspective, in terms of needs, benefits, and results they experience, of the integrated care. A qualitative case study was conducted in three different Dutch municipalities. Between November 2018 and March 2021, integrated care trajectories of eight clients were followed. Data was collected by interviewing twice the participating clients and observing 20 joint client consultations. Analyses revealed insights to strengthen the integrated care approach. Three main benefits were found: Co-ownership, self-regulation and inner peace. The results suggested that a primary focus on providing integrated care for the financial-related problems contributed to an increased sense of inner peace within the clients. The implementation of a joint client consultation strengthened the integrated care between the different social services studied. Future research into the perspectives of the professional, organization, and policy/governance is recommended, as well as quantitative research to obtain quantitative effects on employment and finances in conjunction with the reduction of social issues.