The Challenge of Social Integration: Enhancing Employability in Work Integration Social Enterprises in Spain

Abstract

Purpose: Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) are a profitable social initiative as a business. However, there are no studies that analyze their effectiveness. The aim was to assess the effectiveness of the support and guidance processes implemented within WISEs. We hypothesized that insertion workers will perceive improvements at the personal employability dimensions as protective behaviors and a decrease at the employment risks or lack of self-control dimensions. Methods: This study assesses the effectiveness of intervention and training processes across three phases of a training program among 225 insertion workers from 46 WISEs in Spain. Results: Significant improvements in employability factors perceived by both insertion workers and external evaluators were observed across the three evaluation moments, including improved job protection behaviors ( p = .01), reduced employment risk ( p = .03), or reduced barriers to job search ( p = .01). Conclusions: Suggestions for optimizing program effectiveness include tailored training itineraries, continuous monitoring, and promoting soft skills.