Collaboration for Social Innovation in Örebro County

In Sweden, the term UVAS is used to refer to individuals aged 16–29 who are neither working nor studying. UVAS is a translation of the English term NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), which is used within European Union policy work concerning this group. Compared with the concept of unemployment, UVAS/NEET broadens the understanding of the diverse challenges experienced by a significant proportion of young people before, during, or after the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. These challenges may involve a combination of psychological and social factors. The varied nature of these combinations highlights the need for a comprehensive and wide-ranging societal approach, both to prevent and to address the issues associated with UVAS/NEET in Sweden. 

The project “Collaboration for Social Innovation in Örebro County” aims to develop innovative forms of support for young people who fall within the UVAS category. This support is delivered by civil society organisations through so-called pilot workshops. The project is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and is led by Region Örebro. Other project partners include Örebro University, Stiftelsen Activa, Örebro Fontänhus, and Örebro läns bildningsförbund. In addition, several municipalities and civil society organisations across Örebro County are involved in the project.