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[Development, situation and perspective of self-help support in Germany]
R Geene1, E Huber, J Hundertmark-Mayser
1Hochschule Magdeburg-Stendal, Stendal, BRD. raimund.geene@hs-magdburg.de
Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz
|February 4, 2009
Summary
Self-help groups are vital for social security in Germany, offering local support. Continuous funding and political infrastructure are crucial for their quality development and inclusion efforts.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Public Health
- Community Development
Context:
- Self-help groups and associations are integral to Germany's social security system.
- Local institutions like senior centers and volunteer agencies blend citizen participation with professional services.
- Approximately 280 self-help contact points and over 400 federal associations actively promote self-help initiatives across Germany.
Purpose:
- To highlight the significance of decentralized, locally administered self-help programs.
- To underscore the need for continuous financial support and political infrastructure for self-help initiatives.
- To identify key challenges in self-help programs, including quality development and inclusion.
Summary:
- Decentralized self-help programs, supported by professional systems and citizen engagement, are essential for healthy communities, workplaces, and individuals.
- Cooperation between regional governments, private companies, and citizens is fostering new models for integrated maintenance systems.
- Current challenges involve enhancing program quality and ensuring the inclusion of individuals facing social disadvantages or with migrational backgrounds.
Impact:
- Securing continuous financial support and a robust political infrastructure is vital for the sustainability and effectiveness of self-help programs.
- Investing in self-help infrastructure is a critical health investment, promoting community well-being.
- Addressing challenges related to quality development and inclusion will strengthen the social security system and promote equitable participation.
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