Yeongam Model of Integrated Case Management Draws Attention as Jeonnam Local Governments Benchmark

After Shinan County and South Jeolla Province,
Suncheon City Officials Visit for Observation and Learning

Yeongam County, South Jeolla Province (Governor Woo Seunghee) announced on the 3rd that its problem-solving, Yeongam-style integrated case management, which is leading innovation in local welfare, is being studied and adopted in various parts of South Jeolla Province.

On the 2nd, welfare officials from Suncheon City visited Yeongam County to learn about exemplary cases of Dream Start. During the visit, they observed firsthand the integrated case management operations of Yeongam County’s Dream Start, which supports the healthy growth and development of local children, as well as the regionally customized service models.

Suncheon city officials are observing and experiencing the Yeongam-type integrated case meeting. Provided by Yeongam County

Yeongam County, under its 8th popularly elected administration, is operating a problem-solving integrated case management system. This approach is also applied in the Dream Start sector, focusing on the early identification of children from families in crisis, customized support through integrated services, and strengthening collaboration among practitioners.

Suncheon City officials showed interest in the deployment of specialized personnel such as integrated case management counselors in Yeongam County, as well as in the cases of child-centered integrated service linkage, and actively asked questions.

In particular, they highlighted the integrated case management that begins with meticulous documentation of the child and family's situation and needs, and the role of on-site supervisors who oversee the management of children in crisis, as key points to learn from.

Kim Hajung, head of the Dream Start team in Suncheon City, said, "I was surprised to see that the case management meetings were held in a warm and friendly atmosphere, with a positive outlook that they could provide practical help to children in crisis," and added, "I was also impressed by the synergy created by handling both high-difficulty integrated cases and child integrated cases together, allowing for a wider range of services."

In addition to officials from Suncheon City, officials from Shinan County visited Yeongam County last November, and on the 14th of last month, the South Jeolla Provincial Department of Social Welfare also visited to observe and learn about the overall integrated case meetings, including Dream Start.

Governor Woo Seunghee stated, "Yeongam County’s integrated case management is a people-centered welfare system that places Yeongam residents in crisis at the center, with the administration approaching issues comprehensively and organically to solve problems and help them escape crisis. I hope the Yeongam-style integrated case management model will spread nationwide and improve the lives of even more people."