DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION PROCESS OF THE WELFARE SYSTEM FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES IN CROATIA - CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES

The Croatian social welfare system is currently undergoing deinstitutionalization, a process that presents great challenges to the society in finding ways to minimize the harming effects of the institutionalization of children and to develop alternatives to institutional care, which would offer a real choice and a better quality of life for children with disabilities and their families. The aim of this study was to explore the circumstances that preceded the placement of children with disabilities in institutions, analyze the relevant role of the social welfare centers, examine the cooperation between different sectors and services in providing support to children with disabilities and their families, and identify opportunities for creating stronger synergy of different support mechanisms. The purpose of this study was also to formulate recommendations for improving the protection of rights and the provision of services to children with disabilities in the child welfare system so they may enjoy full integration in their families, schools and communities and equally benefit from other available rehabilitation/treatment services. A quantitative survey was conducted with the aim of better understanding the perspective of professionals who worked with children with disabilities and their families. The participants of the survey were employees of the social welfare system (N=72). Lastly, this study aspired to advance the implementation of the social welfare reforms, to encourage the effective implementation of the relevant laws and policies and to promote the equality, the inclusion and the protection of children with disabilities and their families. The findings of this analysis are intended to serve as a basis for policy and program advocacy efforts for full protection of children's rights and for successful implementation of the deinstitutionalization process.