Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.3935/rsp.v31i2.18
Experiences of Social Enterprises in the Work Integration of Persons whose Behavior Deviates from Formal and Informal Norms
Lucija Azinović Rebić
orcid.org/0009-0004-5725-8819
; Association "Zemljani - Are You Syrious?", Zagreb, Croatia
*
Andreja Rosandić
orcid.org/0009-0000-9723-496X
; Granola, intellectual services business, Zagreb, Croatia
Gabrijela Ratkajec Gašević
; University of Zagreb Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
In the last thirty years of the development of social entrepreneurship, we have seen the expansion of opportunities for the work integration of disadvantaged persons in the labor market, as well as the creation of new business models aimed at ensuring sustainability. This paper aims to analyze the strategies by which social enterprises simultaneously strive to meet the needs of multiply excluded individuals and the demands of the labor market within the existing formal legal framework. Under the concept of multiple exclusions, this research focuses on those excluded based on economic status (the long-term unemployed, the homeless), identification (national minorities), criminal activity (prisoners), and health status (persons with alcohol, gambling, and drug addiction problems). The qualitative research included eight representatives from five organizations working on the work integration of the mentioned groups. The results of the thematic analysis indicate that it is difficult to achieve a balanced social impact in the segment of work inclusion while simultaneously operating successfully in the market and being a driver of social change. The circumstances contributing to this are visible in the results. Although social enterprises see the benefits of work engagement solely from the perspective of employees, constant concern for employee well-being is also a key limitation due to their complex needs. This creates pressure on social enterprise managers as they must simultaneously care for the psychosocial well-being of employees and maintain financial stability.
The results indicate a perceived lack of support in expanding good business models, relieving certain business segments financially, and providing psychosocial support to employees. The implications of the research highlight the necessity of strengthening competencies in providing psychosocial support, managing enterprises, and relaxing formal legal frameworks regarding the work engagement of individuals whose behaviors deviate from formal and informal social norms.
Keywords
social enterprises for labor integration; social entrepreneurship; social exclusion; resocialization; individuals whose behaviors deviate from formal and informal norms
Hrčak ID:
326153
URI
Publication date:
19.12.2024.
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