This report, part of the Beneficiaries’ Impact Assessment (BIA) for the Social Services Delivery Project (SSD), conducted by the Albanian Center for Economic Research (ACER), evaluates the project’s impact on social services in four pilot districts: Tirana, Durres, Vlora, and Shkodra. The assessment considers the perspectives of institutions involved in project implementation as well as the direct beneficiaries. The report focuses on improving institutional capacity at both central and local levels, enhancing service providers for vulnerable groups (elderly, abandoned children, youth, and women), and evaluating the impact of these services on the lives of at-risk populations.

The key issue addressed is whether service providers and community NGOs effectively meet the needs of the local communities, a core objective tied to decentralization and improved beneficiary access to social services. The report also analyzes the types of services provided, noting a qualitative improvement compared to earlier descriptions. This includes an increase in service provider capacities, the introduction of new service types, professional development, better inspection procedures, and the establishment of local and central collaboration networks, all aimed at enhancing service efficiency. Despite progress, the report highlights the need for greater commitment, particularly from local governments, to fully realize these improvements.

Beneficiary Impact Assessment of Social Service Delivery Project

This report has been financed by Social Service Delivery Project Coordination Unit.