The research will be contracted in the framework of FORESEE (VS/2021/0054), a project that aims to build capacity for effective social dialogue structures in the social services sector at national and European level. The project is co-funded by the European Commission, DG EMPL.

The research should examine the following main topics:

1. Literature review (pointing to relevant studies and identifying gaps)
2. Adaptations of working conditions and their impact on the workforce: 
   1. Implications for occupational safety and health
   2. Psychosocial risks and stress
   3. Impact on time schedules
   4. Users/staff ratios, impact of staffing levels on resilience of services and the sector 
   5. New ways of service delivery (remote work, etc.)
   6. Community-based care during COVID-19, impact in the short and long run
3. Impact of Covid-19 on recruitment and retention (covering past, present and future developments):
   1. Recruitment difficulties linked to the crisis, also covering cross-border workers
   2. Retention difficulties linked to the crisis 
   3. Absence and illness of staff 
   4. Impact of the pandemic on the sector’s image and attractiveness 
4. Actions and measures taken in the context of social dialogue/by social partners: 
   1. EU / national / regional / company level actions in addressing the pandemic 
   2. Topics addressed through Social Dialogue
5. Key learnings and innovative practices to be carried forward: 
   1. Changes in working conditions that may stay 
   2. Innovations in the way services are delivered 
   3. New skills and trainings 
   4. Better anticipation of/preparedness for future health crises

The applicant(s) should submit the following documents:

• A motivation letter describing their expertise and explaining why they are the right candidate(s) for the assignment (not more than 1 page). 
• A technical proposal explaining how they plan to conduct the research, including a review of what has already been done, a proposed methodology, a work plan, resources needed, budget, etc. (not more than 2-3 pages).
• A CV, including the list of published articles, reports, studies, if relevant.

Deadline for application: 09/04/2021 23:59 CET
Response to application: 16/04/2021

For further details on the Call for Tender, click here.