Integrated social services in Europe

This report is the result of a two-year project carried out by a group of specialists, whose task was to examine the integration of social services with other selected public services. The concept of 'integration' covers various approaches and methods intended to increase the co-ordination and effectiveness of different services in order to serve the best interests of their users and their families or carers. Addressed to policy makers at national and local levels, service organisations and users, the report provides examples taken from different countries in Europe and guidelines on designing and implementing effective integration policies and practices. It complements Access to social rights in Europe (2002) and is an integral part of the Council of Europe's Strategy for Social Cohesion.