Key factors for organising integrated social care for families with multiple and complex problems: an organisational empowerment perspective

Purpose This study aims to investigate which key organisational factors, such as leadership styles and organisational dynamics, contribute to effective and coordinated integrated social care for families facing multiple and complex problems. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study was conducted using four focus groups, including 28 unique participants. Participants included experts by experience, social workers, team managers, project leaders, general managers, policymakers and directors. Organisational empowerment was applied as a theoretical approach. The focus was on three levels of organisational empowerment: intra-organisational (internal structures and functioning), inter-organisational (collaboration between organisations) and extra-organisational empowerment (influence on the broader policy environment). The data were analysed thematically based on this approach. Findings A culture of trust and shared responsibility strengthens empowerment. Calm and supportive leadership plays a key role. Between organisations, relational trust, informal connections and shared learning are important. In addition, empowerment on a broader level is strengthened by a long-term vision, policy consistency and stability. At all levels, connecting leadership and a shared vision helps to reduce fragmentation. Integrated social care does not depend on structures, but rather on professional interactions. Research limitations/implications The study was conducted within the regional context of Amsterdam Nieuw-West. Future research can focus on how integrated social care, viewed from an organisational empowerment perspective, manifests itself in other settings. Practical implications Policymakers and organisational leaders should prioritise long-term, coherent policies, provide space for professional learning and create conditions that support boundary-crossing collaboration. Originality/value This study applies the organisational empowerment approach as a theoretical lens to understand integrated social care.