SOCIAL POLICIES TO PROTECT FAMILIES IN DIFFICULTY IN TIMES OF PANDEMIC

Abstract

Families generate social capital for society, playing an essential economic, social and political role for social cohesion and sustainability. The emergence of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has profoundly altered family realities and care strategies. The pandemic has highlighted the weaknesses of social protection policies in general and those aimed at families in particular. The article analyzes the changes in family structure and behavior, the social exclusion of households and the protection policies and programs aimed at families with greater social difficulties that are developed by the different public administrations in Spain. The research methodology is based on the systematization and analysis of statistical sources, updated studies and research, and the content analysis of the policies, plans and measures that are developed from the different levels of public administration, especially in the social services system. The research results confirm that social policies for the protection and support of families are scarce, insufficient in coverage and amount, fragmented and unequal in the territories. It is necessary to increase the extension of coverage and the quality of services and social benefits to improve the quality and living conditions of families, especially in times of pandemic