Measuring the demand for services and the conditions for improving accessibility from the perspectives of users and service providers

Abstract

A key issue in the operation of social services is how accessible they are to the target group in terms of space and time. Temporal accessibility is a less-explored area both nationally and internationally. In the case of support services, the issue of timely access is a goal outlined in the National Disability Program’s action plan, but its foundation is weak.

       The aim of the present research is to assess the demand for weekend and extended opening hours of support services among clients, and to examine the fundamental conditions for implementing such changes within the services. The research identifies measurable client demand for early morning, late afternoon, evening, and weekend periods, and examines the characteristics of these needs. It also looks into the regulation of service hours from the providers’ side and the conditions necessary for extending service times.

       The research highlights that there is a clear demand among clients for extended service hours. Service providers have made efforts to meet this demand, but the conditions for doing so are limited. Meeting these demands requires not only the development of human resources and tools, but also an expansion of financial resources.