In 2022, the international award recognizes social services that have developed and implemented a new and innovative process, product, approach, model, or research program that improves the quality of social services by supporting people in need.

The DocRoom Health Research Program was established in 2022 by the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta. We are dedicated to improving the health care of people experiencing homelessness and seeking development opportunities with universities, academic institutions, and social organizations. By sharing our results and policy recommendations, we support professionals and decision-makers working in the social sector. DocRoom is the first research project in Europe that measures the impact of digital health in the healthcare of homeless people.

The award aims to showcase social services that are at the forefront of social innovation and develop new, creative, and inspiring solutions to structural challenges, deep-rooted problems, or a gap in the social care system.

This year, the award will be presented for the fourth time, and in the research project category, applications were received from Spain, the United Kingdom, and Azerbaijan. Over the years, more than 250 applications have been received from 30 countries. In previous years, ESSA awarded projects to improve the flexibility of quality care, community care, and social services.