THE POTENTIAL OF PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS AS ACTORS IN MANAGING THE SOCIAL SERVICE SYSTEM IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the functioning of public organizations within the social service system at the managerial, organizational, and executive levels. The purpose of this research is to determine the potential of public organizations as actors in managing the social service system in Ukraine. Research Methodology. The study employed statistical data analysis to identify current areas of activity of public organizations within the social service system. The method of document analysis was also used to examine the regulatory framework and the plans of public councils in the regions of the country. To systematize previous scholarly achievements in this field, general scientific research methods were applied, which contributed to creating a holistic picture of the functioning of public organizations in the process of providing social services. Research Results. The findings indicate that public organizations are present at the managerial level of social work as formalized participants in social partnership—public councils. This enables them to influence the social policy of government bodies and help adjust it in the interests of citizens. In addition, public organizations are represented in the social service system at the level of self-organization and formalization as providers of social services. The involvement of the civil society sector in social service partnerships makes it possible to address complex social problems beyond the framework of state assistance. An example is day care services for youth with disabilities provided by public organizations. Furthermore, the study identifies the main areas of social services in which public organizations operate. At present, their activities are limited by regulatory requirements as well as by human and material resources. As a direction for further research, it is important to address the issue of systematic work of public organizations in social advocacy and mediation aimed at building a healthy and sustainable society