Voluntary low-threshold services can fill gaps in public services for children and young people by helping to reach this group more effectively and by increasing support and participation. However, the role of these services in promoting social inclusion, and how they supplement public services, remains underexplored. The project aims to examine how voluntary low-threshold services, both independently and through collaboration with the public sector, can help ensure that all children and young people have access to and receive support from the services they need, regardless of their circumstances.
First, the project will investigate social risks related to young people experiencing exclusion from public services, and voluntary services as supplements and alternatives.
Second, the project will examine what takes place within these voluntary services and how they can help children and young people.
Third, it will shed light on what makes voluntary-public collaboration work, as well as potential barriers that may prevent effective collaboration.
Finally, the project aims to contribute to improved practice, collaboration and policy in this field, in cooperation with voluntary organizations, public services and other stakeholders.
Among other things, the project seeks to illuminate how the situation of young people at risk is understood, how voluntary services and the public sector put inclusion, support and follow-up of young people into practice, and the dynamics of voluntary-public collaboration. To investigate these issues, the project is based on case studies of voluntary low-threshold services, including observation and interviews in connection with youth activities, as well as analysis of survey data on children and young people.
The project is a collaboration between the Institute for Social Research and NORCE, together with three voluntary organizations: the Norwegian Red Cross, Save the Children Norway and Church City Mission. By integrating research and practice, the project aims to develop knowledge that can help improve existing practice and foster innovation in the support and follow-up of children and young people.
