Social Services Evolution in Spain Since 1978

Item 1: Legal Framework Evolution

Since 1978, the European Community (EC) initiated a dynamic transformation of the legal framework for Social Services (SS) in Spain. The Statute of Autonomy granted significant references to SS across all Autonomous Communities (CCAA). The 1985 Law on the Basis of Local Government (for populations over 20,000) further solidified this framework. Regional Acts addressing specific needs were also approved, alongside sector-specific laws such as the Penitentiary Law, Asylum and Refugee Law, Work-Family Reconciliation Law, Rights and Freedoms of Foreigners Law, Gender Violence Law, and regional Social Wage or Minimum Insertion Income Laws. This extensive legal framework has led to intense policy development at both central and autonomous levels, including decrees, orders, and regulations.

Item 2: Administrative Organization

The administrative organization of SS has been strengthened, enhancing operational and management structures. This has led to the emergence of various authorities (Ministries, Councils, Institutes, State or Autonomous Directorates-General). Political actions and the SS field have gained legitimacy. This consolidation has improved service quality, data provision, statistics, and streamlined management. Performance Management Plans have been approved, covering basic benefits, disability support, drugs, and women's issues.

Item 3: Infrastructure and Equipment

Infrastructure and equipment development has been a priority. Communities have increased local endowments, including:

• Cabins
• Homes
• Day care centers
• Soup kitchens
• Occupational centers

This infrastructure extends to cities, suburbs, and towns, enhancing the visibility and legitimacy of SS, similar to health or education systems.

Item 4: Staff Recruitment

A significant recruitment policy has been implemented. The SS sector has experienced marked employment growth, identified as a new employment site by the EU. This includes civil service development across administrative bodies, with various employment contracts. Notably, there is a high rate of feminization and a younger workforce. Women predominantly hold management positions and are the majority of SS users.

Item 5: Structuring and Fields of Action

Despite autonomous diversity, operational areas have remained relatively homogeneous. While disparities exist, there are no significant differences in SS performance. The organizational framework is consistent across communities, focusing on children, disability, substance abuse, and the elderly. Diversity arises in action programs, influenced by location-specific issues and political priorities. Homogenizing dynamics have largely mitigated the risks of heterogeneity.