Platform for Social Change explores European social care practices in Germany

From March 10 to 12, 2026, Olena Korotniuk, a representative of Platform for Social Change, visited Germany as part of the international CAPABLE project, implemented with the support of the Interreg Europe programme. The purpose of the visit was to explore modern European approaches to training professionals and organizing social care systems for older adults.

Study visits and partner meetings took place in the cities of Dreieich, Offenbach, and Rodgau. During these meetings, participants had the opportunity to learn about the practices of organizations that contribute to the development of modern social service systems in Germany.

In particular, the visit included presentations and exchanges with several organizations working in the field of social care and professional training.

• USS GmbH (Offenbach) is a private education provider that prepares specialists for the social sector. The organization demonstrates how modern educational programs, digital tools, and well-structured training approaches can ensure high-quality professional preparation.
• Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe e.V. is one of the largest humanitarian organizations in Germany. Its activities combine a strong volunteer movement with professional social services, creating large-scale and effective support systems for people who require care.
• Schon & Jansen Tagespflege is a day-care center for older adults where special attention is given to creating an environment that closely resembles a home setting. This approach combines comfort and safety with professional medical and social support.

During the meetings, partners of the CAPABLE project from different countries also presented their own initiatives aimed at supporting care workers and improving the organization of care services.

For example, in Italy (Friuli Venezia Giulia region) a certification system has been introduced to recognize skills acquired in the informal sector. This allows people working as home assistants to officially confirm their qualifications and obtain the status of Family Assistants.

In Poland (Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship) the project “Conscious Caregiver” has been developed. It includes an online platform that helps assess the level of emotional exhaustion among caregivers and provides timely psychological support.

In Spain (Region of Murcia) a work-based learning model has been implemented, allowing individuals to combine training with employment in the care sector. This approach helps attract new professionals to the field more quickly.

European experience demonstrates a shared principle: the quality of social care services directly depends on the support provided to those who deliver them. Investments in training, digital tools, psychological support, and official recognition of qualifications create the foundation for sustainable social service systems.

The experience gained during the visit will support the further work of Platform for Social Change within the CAPABLE project. The organization plans to use these insights to:

• develop training programs for the social sector;

• organize stakeholder roundtables;

• advocate for improvements in Ukraine’s social service system.

The CAPABLE project, implemented under the Interreg Europe programme, aims to improve policies related to quality care for older adults and to strengthen professional social care systems across participating regions.