Title of the practice |
Sensitisation of key decision makers for demographic change. |
Precise theme/issue tackled by the practice |
Demographic change has not yet been identified as an upcoming challenge by entrepreneurs and social partners of the Girona region (Catalonia). This is mainly due to general early retirement and a massive influx of young migrants that satisfy the region’s need for flexible and cheap labour. |
Objectives of the practice |
Convince decision-makers to address demographic change while it is still ahead, connect the topic of demographic change to the promotion of a higher job quality in the region. |
Location |
Province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain |
Detailed description of the practice |
Within the F4W project carried out by Espiral, Entitat de Serveis and the University of Girona, all key decision makers were sensitised and became involved in the project (the two major trade unions, the two major employer’s organisations, labour service of Catalonia, regional and local governments, university, training centres). The main tools were a close collaboration with local media, seminars to work systematically through the topic of demographic change and the Expo 50+ that took place in Girona on the 29th September 2007. The sensitisation was the main focus of Girona’s participation in FIT 4 WORK. |
Evaluation |
Although businesses were not yet convinced to take action, all key decision makers were brought together to discuss demographic change together in public for the first time. Main actors have agreed to work together beyond the lifetime of FIT 4 WORK to increase job quality and employment opportunities for more experienced workers. |
Lessons learnt from the practice |
The work of the partners in Girona demonstrated how key decision makers can be sensitised and brought together to jointly prepare actions to address demographic change. |
Relevant factors/conditions for the transfer of the good practice |
The implementing organisations need proper networks to involve key stakeholders and decision makers. |
Implementing organisations |
Espiral, Entitat de Serveis ; University of Girona |
Contact information |
FIT 4 WORK Espiral, Entitat de Serveis Girona, Catalonia, Spain jdetoca@espirals.org  |
Other possible interesting information |
www.fit4work-project.org |