Routes into Activity
This objective was about exchanging good practice and testing new methods for routes into activity, including methods of engaging people into activity and volunteering. Madrid took the lead on developing a transnational understanding on this theme, although all 4inclusion partners contributed.
Background
The concept of activation is not new in Europe but activation policies are thriving in the present European political context where there are strong forces pushing for policies that are effective in increasing the number of people who contribute to production and to social security costs through their participation in the labour market and policies that reduce the number of dependent people who need benefits.
Themed Seminar
In May 2006, Madrid hosted the ‘4inclusion – Routes into Activity’ seminar. The overarching aim was to exchange good practices of engaging clients into activities other than formal employment. Increasing employability would be one of the desired effects of this engagement but not its end or only purpose. Clients who participate in groups, who enjoy leisure activities, or who help others and society through voluntary work would increase their personal resources and their quality of life and would probably find the motivation, the self-esteem and the skills to participate in the labour market, as another form of participation in society.
The highlights from the seminar included:
- Field visits - Madrid activation projects
- Workshop - Activation towards employment
- Workshop - Activation as development of personal resources
Themed Report
For more information about the event, including key findings from the workshops and feedback from participants, download the full seminar report Madrid Seminar – Routes into Activity (410 KB).