This report looks at the trends that are likely to affect the social service sector over the next 15 years, when it will be 2040, the 200-year anniversary of the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. In fifteen years’ time, what will the social sector look like? How will we be working? What challenges will we face? What can we do now to work effectively and prepare for the future?
As the world around us changes at breakneck speed, there is no doubt that many changes and demands will affect the social service sector. The purpose of this piece is to better enable for-purpose organisations to front-foot developments, take advantage of new opportunities, and prepare for the future.
We hope this provides inspiration to explore, or further explore, emerging ways of working or technologies that enhance the work you do and the impact of your organisation. Many for-purpose organisations are already incorporating such trends, for example by using artificial intelligence to save time on preparing reports and communications, and by paying more attention to data to measure impact or inform the delivery of social services, including co-designing services with those who use them.
Seven trends are outlined based on a wide-ranging international online search of future trends in social service delivery, including the use of ChatGPT. SociaLink is very grateful to the CEO of Te Pai Ora Social Service Providers Aotearoa, Belinda Himiona, who kindly reviewed this report and provided insightful feedback that helped guide its content.
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