The role of social work in addressing NEET youth: Interventions and support mechanisms in Slovenia and Lithuania

Abstract

The study explored the role of social work interventions and support mechanisms in the (re)integration of NEET youth in Slovenia and Lithuania. The research aimed to analyse social work interventions with NEET youth, identify support mechanisms used in practice, and explore how EU and national policies shape social workers’ daily work. A qualitative research design was employed. With data collected through nine semi-structured interviews with social workers experienced in programmes addressing NEET youth. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA. The study was guided by Ecological Systems Theory and Social Capital Theory. The findings revealed that social workers apply a wide range of individually tailored interventions while considering the personal, social, institutional, and structural factors. Furthermore, social workers strengthen bonding, bridging, and linking social capital, allowing a successful (re)integration. Additionally, social work practice is shaped by policy-related and organizational factors, including funding, interinstitutional cooperation, administrative responsibilities, programmes’ frameworks, resource availability, housing instability, and broader institutional attitudes toward vulnerable youth groups. The study highlights the importance of holistic, needs-based social work practice in the programmes addressing NEET youth. The findings are relevant to social work practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to strengthen NEET youth (re)integration pathways.