Launch of the “SAVE” Project: Supporting Professionals Working with Vulnerable Minors
In a complex and constantly evolving socio-economic landscape, the demand for support for minors in vulnerable situations is steadily increasing. Professionals in this field face heavy workloads and limited resource availability - factors that contribute to significant professional pressure and vulnerability.
In response to these challenges, Università Cattolica, in collaboration with Fondazione Don Gino Rigoldi and supported by Fondazione Cariplo, has launched the project: "Stand by me: Addressing Social Workers' Vulnerability to Support Youth From Social Exclusion" (SAVE).
Objectives and Purpose
The SAVE project aims to empower and protect social workers who dedicate themselves daily to supporting vulnerable youth. The research seeks to analyze and understand the dynamics that influence professional well-being and the quality of work within this sector.
Fondazione Don Gino Rigoldi serves as a strategic partner, contributing to the dissemination of results and providing essential scientific and methodological support.
Project Structure and Phases
The SAVE project is organized into several phases designed to map the professional conditions and well-being of social workers.
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Phase 1: Analysis and Mapping A socio-economic analysis of the scale and evolution of this specific labor sector in Italy.
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Phase 2: Scientific Literature Review Research focused on identifying factors that contribute to job quality and practitioner well-being through an extensive review of existing scientific literature.
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Phase 3: Quantitative Survey The administration of a questionnaire to assess the occupational well-being of staff working in residential care facilities for minors, with a specific focus on the Lombardy region.
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Phase 4: Qualitative Research Through interviews, focus groups, and field observations, the research team will engage with practitioners to gather their experiences, perceptions, and daily challenges, exploring the factors that facilitate or hinder their professional quality of life.
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Phase 5: Development of an Assessment Tool As a final output, the project will develop a self-assessment tool that organizations and communities can utilize to monitor and implement initiatives to enhance staff well-being.