ACCESSIBILITY AND QUALITY OF SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN BULGARIA: IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZATION AND DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION Cover Image

ACCESSIBILITY AND QUALITY OF SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN BULGARIA: IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZATION AND DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION
ACCESSIBILITY AND QUALITY OF SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN BULGARIA: IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZATION AND DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION

Author(s): Tanya Vazova
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Sociology, Applied Sociology, Social development, Social differentiation, Family and social welfare, Demography and human biology, Economic development
Published by: АСПЕКТ-ПРО ЕООД
Keywords: social services; decentralization; deinstitutionalization; integrated care; social inclusion

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the development of social services in Bulgaria after 2002, with an emphasis on decentralization and deinstitutionalization as key processes for the transformation of the system. It analyses the main reforms introduced through new legislation, including the Social Services Act (2019), and their impact on the accessibility, quality and efficiency of services provided. Special attention is paid to the role of municipalities and private providers in providing social support, as well as the transition from institutional care to home- and community-based services. The study highlights the significant progress in increasing the number and capacity of day and residential care units, but also identifies critical challenges such as uneven distribution of services, lack of resources and lack of sustainability of project-based initiatives. It also discusses good practices related to the integrated approach and the need for more effective collaboration between the public and private sectors. In conclusion, the paper offers recommendations for the future development of social services, including expanding capacity, improving the quality of care and introducing innovative models of support. This study provides valuable insights for improving the social system in Bulgaria in order to more effectively meet the needs of vulnerable groups and improve quality of life.

  • Issue Year: 1/2024
  • Issue No: 5
  • Page Range: 67-84
  • Page Count: 18
  • Language: English
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