Social initiatives

In the area of social initiatives, AKF conducts research into, among other things:

• Social work and the function of public initiatives, viewed in relation to the client's situation and life strategy
• The significance of the work that various professional groups do in the social area

Social work and the function of public initiatives

The objective of social work is to prevent and counteract marginalisation and exclusion. It is, therefore, crucial that we understand how various types of social initiatives function and the role they play in relation to whether an initiative leads to the intended changes. Consequently, the interaction between the client and the social programme; various effects on the individuals involved, and on the conditions of the professional effort and opportunities for developing this effort are key areas for AKF's research in social work.

Initiatives geared towards specific groups

For several years, AKF has focused on initiatives and methods geared towards specific groups, including children and young people; people with disabilities; recipients of social assistance benefits; highly vulnerable groups with substance abuse, homelessness and mental illness; and immigrants and refugees. We also conduct background studies on how a situation develops into a problem that social policy and social work must deal with.

Social work in practice

In recent years, there has been increased focus – in both politics and research – on the professional foundation and legitimacy of social work. And yet, professionalism and expertise in social work are still a relatively unresearched field in Denmark. AKF conducts research that analyses the professional approaches and methods of front-line staff in practice. The objective of this research is to develop both theoretical and methodological approaches to analysing social work practices and to build up knowledge that can improve practices.

Network within Danish social work research

AKF has taken the initiative to establish a network of researchers who deal with social work. The purpose of this initiative is, in part, to develop and coordinate research in the area and, in part, to communicate this research to practitioners and decision-makers.