Local labor market interventions for labor market inclusion: a review of social services’ interventions to people with social assistance

Research QuestionMunicipal labor market professionals face an increasingly complex target group, and they seek a comprehensive, in-depth understanding of the various, often fragmented initiatives aimed at enhancing this group´s ability to enter the labor market.

The aim of this research overview is therefore to identify, map, and analyze research-based knowledge on local labor market initiatives targeting individuals who receive long-term financial assistance.

The overview will (a) identify different types of LLMIs, (b) explain what components in the LLMIS are intended to be effective, how, and towards whom, and (c) analyze the theoretical origins of the LLMIs.MethodThe review is conducted as a scoping review, with both scientific and gray literature sourced from international and national databases and websites.

This method is particularly suitable for mapping fields where the literature varies in nature.

The gray literature is limited to Swedish sources to enable a more in-depth analysis of the application of initiatives in Sweden.

The mapping will take place on both descriptive and analytical levels through data charting and data extraction combined with qualitative analysis.Societal Relevance and Practical ApplicationThe overview is expected to help fill a knowledge gap by providing research-based support to social services professionals in their efforts to include individuals with long-term financial assistance into the labor market.

Professionals have specifically requested deeper knowledge to facilitate dialogue around the LLMIs aimed at the target group.

Developing this knowledge is especially relevant in the Swedish context, considering the new social services legislation taking effect on July 1, 2025, which increases the demand for social services to be grounded in evidence-based knowledge.

Additionally, the review can clarify how different LLMIs are intended to function across various groups, which is important as the target group has changed and expanded in recent years and now has more extensive and complex support needs than before.Plan for project realizationIn the first half of the year, project tasks include data base searches, selection of publications, and reading and categorizing data, as well as manuscript work.

In the second half, tasks include data analysis, production of a project website and short films, manuscript submission, and dissemination of results to stakeholders. Project costs include salaries for four senior researchers.