While the participation of people in the design, implementation, and evaluation of social services is promoted as a European Union priority, it is only slowly being embedded at organizational and policy levels.

Within a context where social services (designed to protect vulnerable citizens and implement social rights) face high pressure due to growing inequalities and demands, the increased use of digital tools and the ongoing digital divide impact participation dynamics in the social sector.

Moreover, many citizens in vulnerable situations experience a lack of self-confidence and faith that they will actually be listened to, which results in poor motivation to take part in co-construction processes.

As Doctoral Network, Cocoso aims to make co-construction a meaningful reality for all stakeholders in the field of social welfare. To reach the targeted objectives, this Doctoral network is organized into 4 main work packages:

 

• Develop a Common Understanding of Co-Construction
• Embed Co-Construction in Policies and Services
• Include Diversity in Co-Construction
• Enhance the Potential of Digital Tools for Participation