Research in specialised social services has been strengthened with nearly DKK 40 million

Do the increasing levels of public spending that Denmark allocates to social services in fact provide better support for vulnerable citizens? Can we strengthen well-being and foster emotional understanding and regulation among young people in residential institutions?

These are just some of the questions posed and investigated by the five researchers. Each of the projects will, in its own way, contribute new knowledge to the specialised social services sector. This sector covers children, young people, and adults with reduced physical or mental capacity, or with particular social difficulties. It thus spans individuals with diverse needs, which must be addressed through different measures within the fields of disability, social psychiatry, and vulnerability.

»The specialised social services sector is an important area about which we unfortunately have limited knowledge. Due to its great complexity, it has historically been difficult to establish a solid research foundation, and it is therefore crucial that we support and build capacity. I was delighted to see such interesting applications of such high quality, and I have great confidence in the five selected research projects. I am certain they will deliver results for both organisations and individuals within the sector,« says Ulla-Karin Schön, Professor at Stockholm University. She is Chair of the thematic committee DFF | Thematic research – Strengthened research in specialized social services, which has awarded the funding under this programme.

See all research projects under ‘Strengthened research in specialized social services’ in 2025 here. 

Homelessness and vulnerable positions

The specialised social services sector is broad and includes, among others, vulnerable adults. One of the funded researchers will study how vulnerable citizens engage with the justice system when reporting violence and abuse. The research project focuses on sex workers’ access to justice and investigates how cases of violence against sex workers are handled within the Danish legal system.

In another funded research project, a researcher studies Denmark’s efforts to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness. Previous interventions have been difficult to scale up, and the number of homeless individuals in Denmark has remained largely unchanged over an extended period. The project aims to provide insight into both the opportunities and the challenges in addressing homelessness.

Residential care oversight under scrutiny to strengthen accountability for vulnerable children and young people

Associate Professor Matilde Høybye-Mortensen from VIA University College is one of the five researchers to receive funding. Her research focuses on children and young people placed outside their homes, such as in residential care, foster families, or residential institutions. When placed, society assumes responsibility for their development and well-being; however, some children and young people in care experience poor well-being or neglect. Matilde Høybye-Mortensen investigates how society can ensure effective oversight and maintain high standards in the care placements provided.

Read the article about citizens who are placed outside their own home here.

Please note: The stated grant amounts may be subject to change following the upcoming budget review.