To care for or to accompany? Determining factors for an inclusive work environment in Community Social Services of Andalusia (Spain)

Abstract

AbstractThis article, the result of a research and development project funded by the Spanish administration, analyzes the impact of the dynamics of social inclusion carried out by the Municipal Social Services Centers in the region of Andalusia (Spain). The research follows a qualitative methodology, centered on the analysis of normative, operative, and discursive dimensions. This research shows how the social intervention carried out in these centres is conditioned by two very different realities. On the one hand, there is a set of regulations that, from a theoretical point of view, is committed to social integration. On the other hand, a daily context with a high level of interferences and assistance demands that hinder a real labour activation and social integration. This situation generates great organisational pressure and conditions professional praxis. Several factors play a role in this situation: The ideas held by the people involved in the professional intervention, knowledge management, networking, and the relationship between client and professional. The study concludes that to reinforce the inclusive capacity of social services increasing the resources and number of professionals is not enough, focusing on the models of management and intervention in a collaborative fashion is also necessary.