Changes in the approach of social work with young people in out-of-home care in Riga

At the end of 2019, an innovative approach was launched in social work with young people in out-of-home care in Riga. This approach included prevention, changes in the form and methods of social work, and planning for the transition period. To implement the new approach, a new structure – the Youth Support Centre – was established. In 2022, a study with a mixed research methodology was conducted to evaluate the impact of the Youth Support Centre’s approach and activities on changes in the social functioning of young people. The analysis revealed several significant findings that shed light on the factors influencing social functioning among young people, which also indicates the necessary changes in the administration of social services.