Work inclusion of marginalised groups in a troubled city district—How can active labour market policies improve?

Abstract

Active labour market policies (ALMP) have faced challenges in integrating marginalised groups into the workforce. This study explores perceptions among managers and frontline workers on enhancing work inclusion for neurodiverse citizens, marginalised youth, and individuals suffering from mental health or substance use disorders in a troubled city district. An examination of dialogue conferences and group interviews uncovers problems with current practises, attitudes, and service organisation. The proposed local solutions primarily include improved coordination of support and services, as well as enhanced competence within these services. Our results indicate that co‐creation at the system, organisation, and individual levels, coupled with expanded knowledge translation, can mobilise local actors to create new or adopt existing knowledge‐based strategies. Therefore, local co‐creation presents a potential for developing local inclusion strategies.