Sociobarometer 1997

The respondents included executives of municipal social services, employment offices, health and social organisations, and the local offices of the Social Insurance Institution. They were asked to evaluate the socio-economic situation of municipalities, and whether it was possible to ensure the necessary services with the present resources. Workforce adequacy and the functionality of various modes of working were also estimated. The respondents were asked to describe their current sentiments. They assessed the well-being of their customers, as well as the changes in the welfare and social security of the different population and customer groups (e.g. the unemployed, the re-constituted families). In addition, they evaluated the adequacy of different social benefits (sickness benefit, subsistence subsidy, etc). Customers' situations in life, such as housing and human relationships, were also reviewed. The respondents assessed the changes and functionality of the services provided by the municipalities, the Social Insurance Institution, employment administration, and the private sector. They were asked how significant a role various operators (families, organisations, municipalities) play as the providers of help and support. The respondents commented on some social policy related issues, such as the functionality of the subsistence security system. Furthermore, they evaluated whether factors such as internationalisation are somehow relevant to the modes or future prospects of their operations (e.g. redefining customership). Background variables included the respondent's occupational position or title and three regional variables.