Analysis of the funding of social services from a spatial approach in Andalusia (Spain)

This study analyzes the geographical distribution of funding per inhabitant of Community Social Service Centres (CSSCs) in Andalusia, Spain in 2019. Spatial autocorrelation measures identified spatial clusters of high and low funding rates. Regressions explored associations between funding and demographic/socioeconomic indicators. Results showed non-random funding distribution, with hot spots in rural areas and cold spots in urban areas. Funding was significantly associated with the ageing index and primary sector employment, and inversely with foreign population and population density. Spatial analyses supported service assessment and social policy decision-making.

Jose A. Salinas-Perez, Esteban Ruiz-Ballesteros, Auxiliadora González-Portillo