Livsval (‘Life Choice’) is an example of an ESF ‘co-operation project’ managed by a partnership among state, local and third sector organisations in the Stockholm area. It runs for three years (2009-11) and is developing a model of integrated rehabilitation (MIRA) involving the setting up of a consortium of social enterprises by recovering drug addicts and people suffering from mental illness. It follows on from previous work on the social franchising of work integration social enterprises (WISEs) such as Vägen ut!

This case clearly illustrates the bridge between social economy and local development. It is a perfect example of how various local stakeholders – steered by social NGOs in this case – can be efficient at local level by developing innovative solutions for vulnerable groups.

AEIDL (February 2011)

AEIDL is contracted by the European Commission in order to provide technical assistance related to the European Social Fund’s Transnational Cooperation and Innovation strands. The views expressed by AEIDL experts remain informal and may not in any circumstance be regarded as the official position of the European Commission.

---