Our 18th European Social Services Conference 'Challenges and Opportunities for Social Services in Europe: promoting care and inclusion in a difficult economic environment' took place in Barcelona from 21-23 June 2010 and was organized in cooperation with the Spanish European Council Presidency.

The annual European Social Services Conference is our flagship event intended for all those concerned with planning and delivering European social care and health. Through top-quality plenary presentations and a highly topical workshop programme, the conference offers strategic and practical learning and networking opportunities to all those responsible for planning and implementing services in different European regions: planners, politicians, managers and professionals.

The conferences are held in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish and attracts over 400 delegates from over 30 different countries.

“This event sends a signal that the social dimension of European unity is an important issue which must be given a high profile.” Vladimir Špidla, European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities

With over 30 multi-lingual plenary and workshop presentations, the conference provides a unique opportunity to understand the changes taking place and for the exchange of ideas, experience and ‘best practice’.