Changes in the Approach of Social Work with Young People in Out-of-Family Care in Riga

Description

In November 2019, changes took place in social work with the young people in the transition from out-of-home care to independent living in Riga - a centralized work organization; the social workers make early contact with the young person before the end of out-of-home care; group work e.o. The Youth Support Center (YSC), a unit of the Children and Youth Center of Riga Municipality (CYCRM), was established. The aim of the study: to find out the impact of YSC activity on changes in the social functioning of young people. Study time: May, 2022 till November, 2022.. Mixed research methodology: statistical data analysis to analyze the social functioning of the target group youth (frequency, Spearman correlation and multi-factoral regression analysis); in-depth interviews with the social workers and administration; a survey of the clients as well as life story interviews and focus group discussion to assess the needs of the target group.. YSC is the place where young people get the individual attention and support they need, especially in critical moments. By providing support only in relation to residence/welfare, the young person is also provided with security, not least the psychological and practical support. Social workers of the YSC are able to act in extraordinary situations, be flexible and empathetic.. The YSC is an essential and important resource providing support for all young people after out-of-home care, regardless of the form of care. The YSC increases the social functioning of young people, has a positive influence upon their values, their life in general, and the opportunity to become active members of the community and society. Positive change dynamics in the behavior of the target group youth prove that initiated changes in the approach of social work with young people in out-of-family care in Riga have produced positive results.

Period	29 Mar 2023
Event title	RSU Research week 2023: Society. Health. Welfare
Event type	Conference
Conference number	9
Organiser	Rīga Stradiņš University
Location	Riga, LatviaShow on map
Degree of Recognition	International