Social space orientation - the orientation of space to the needs of its users
What does social space orientation mean? The definition
The term Social space orientation describes a technical concept that aims to improve living conditions within a geographically defined area — such as a region, district or municipality. The focus is on the individual needs, interests and resources of residents. This concept is aimed at ensuring that the social offerings in a specific social area meet the needs and strengths of its residents. Examples of such social spaces include youth centers, community centers and leisure areas such as parks and sports fields. Social space orientation enables residents to receive support services tailored to their interests and at the same time to promote self-help.
The 5 principles of social space orientation
To ensure that social space orientation is as efficient and targeted as possible, five methodological principles have proven effective:
- Orientation towards interests and will
- The first principle underlines how important it is to take residents' individual interests and wishes seriously and to develop approaches based on them. It is about what drives and motivates people — and not about providing external incentives. In this way, activities can be developed that are geared to the needs of residents.
- Priority for self-help and initiative
- Promoting personal initiative is also at the heart of social space orientation. Residents should not only benefit passively from external services, but should also actively participate in shaping their environment. The aim is to promote independence and create an environment in which social support is gradually becoming less necessary.
- Focus on personal and socio-spatial resources
- Support offers are based on the individual strengths and potential of those involved as well as on the available resources in the social area. In a partnership, personal support needs are identified and supplemented by professional advice.
- Cross-divisional and cross-target group activities
- Every person is regarded as an individual, even if they are assigned to a target group. However, support should be directed in such a way that different target groups interact with each other, which strengthens cohesion in the social space.
- Cooperation and coordination of social services
- Functioning social space orientation requires the networking of all participating institutions and services. There is often a lack of coordinated approach, which can lead to competing activities and contradictory recommendations. Well-coordinated cooperation between social services creates a strong network that acts in a targeted manner and offers the best possible support.
Social space orientation as a holistic approach
The concept of social space orientation stands for activating and integrating social work, which is carried out in coordination with residents and existing resources. It thus provides a structured basis for the communal design of social spaces, which benefits all residents.
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