C © Owned by the authors, published by EDP Sciences, 2014 Programme evaluation – Case work with families and children in Riga

Abstract. Since 2003, the professional social work has been acknowledged as a professional occupation. In compliance with the Social Service and Social Assistance Law (further – Law), local municipalities are responsible for carrying out individual work with families and children, where there are negative preconditions for the development of a child. The city of Riga is the capital of Latvia and the largest municipality with the broadest spectrum of experience in providing social assistance and social services. Riga can boast with the two-levelled organisation of social work: direct social work with a client is carried out at Riga Social Office; however, social assistance and its programme administration is the responsibility of Welfare Department of Riga. Data show that especially during the period of economic crisis and after-crisis period the number of clients of social workers – families – has markedly increased. If back in 2008, up to 3063 families needed social assistance and social services; in 2011, the number of families in need of such assistance had already reached 3216. This indicates the steady growth of social work in Riga. In 2011, social services and social assistance to 3216 families was provided with th