Part Three: UISSS in 2023 - Illuminating Change Through Citizen Stories

In our ongoing exploration of the Unified Information System of the Social Sphere (UISSS), via diving into the recent STAAR Facility report we’ve witnessed firsthand the digital transformation’s potential to revolutionize Ukraine’s social protection framework. After delving into the technological advancements in our previous entry, Part 3 shifts our focus towards the human element, illustrating the UISSS’s impact through the lens of everyday citizens.

For data privacy reasons and to ensure neutrality, the scenarios presented herein are fictional, crafted in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Policy (MoSP), in particular Deputy Minister Kostiantyn Koshelenko and his team to map the business flow of three common challenges Ukrainian citizens face. These narratives—centering on Halyna Danylchenko, the Melnyk family, and the Kovalenko family—are inspired by true events and designed to reflect the socioeconomic conditions many Ukrainians navigate.

» Halyna Danylchenko's Scenario: This fictional account of Halyna portrays the experiences of individuals navigating the social welfare system. It aims to depict the potential efficiencies and accessibilities offered by the UISSS, resonating with common citizen experiences.

» The Melnyk Family's Situation: Created to represent families facing economic difficulties, the Melnyk family's story illustrates their interactions with the UISSS. This narrative is designed to show the system's capabilities in providing timely and relevant assistance to similar families.

» The Kovalenko Family's Circumstances: The Kovalenko family's fictional experience is based on the prevalent challenges faced by many Ukrainian households. Their story is used to demonstrate how the UISSS might cater to diverse needs and offer comprehensive support.

While fictional, these case studies are grounded in the realities of Ukrainian society and are intended to provide a neutral, impartial view of how the UISSS's systemic changes could potentially impact everyday lives. They serve to contextualize the system within the broader spectrum of social welfare challenges in Ukraine. For a more detailed overview of this topic please do read the full report on socialprotection.org: https://lnkd.in/eKw3HuUz

Halyna's Story: Navigating Social Assistance through the UISSS

Halyna Danylchenko, a retired schoolteacher from Kherson, found herself in dire straits following the escalation of conflict in her region in 2023.  Forced to leave her home, she became one of the many internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking safety and stability. Upon registering as an IDP through the UISSS, Halyna applied for the additional social assistance available to people in her situation. The system, leveraging its interconnected databases, promptly assessed her eligibility based on her pension status, IDP status, and current financial needs.

Accessing Multiple Forms of Assistance:

» Old-Age Pension: As a retiree, Halyna continued to receive her regular pension, which was now directly deposited into her bank account, eliminating the need for physical collection in a conflict zone.

» Housing Assistance for IDPs: Recognizing her displacement status, the UISSS facilitated a one-time housing assistance payment to help Halyna secure temporary accommodation, ensuring her immediate shelter needs were met.

» Assistance for Low-Income Families: Given the disruption of her regular income, Halyna became eligible for theGuaranteed Minimum Income program, providing her with additional monthly financial support to cover basic living expenses.

» Healthcare and Disability Support: Although Halyna didn’t have a disability, the UISSS system was equipped to provide necessary healthcare and disability-related assistance to those who needed it, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all eligible citizens.

Support for Non-Digital Natives: Accessing the UISSS and Diia Platforms

Halyna, displaced and seeking assistance, faced the additional challenge of digital navigation due to her unfamiliarity with smartphones. Recognizing this barrier, the Ukrainian social protection system has established several support mechanisms for individuals like Halyna. In her new town, Halyna found solace at the local Administrative Service Centre (CNAP), where compassionate staff members guided her through the registration process for the UISSS. They facilitated her application for housing assistance and ensured her pension continued uninterrupted through direct bank transfers. The local Ministry of Social Policy office became a critical resource, providing her with the necessary information and support to access the various social benefits she was entitled to as a retiree and IDP. These in-person services ensured that Halyna, despite the digital divide, received comprehensive support and maintained her dignity and security in times of upheaval.

6.1.3 Impact of the UISSS on Halyna's Life

The streamlined, integrated approach of the UISSS played a crucial role in quickly adapting to Halyna's changing circumstances. By offering a centralized platform for applying and receiving various forms of social assistance, the system reduced bureaucratic hurdles and provided timely support. The seamless interlinking of her pension records, IDP status, and financial need assessment ensured that Halyna received a holistic package of benefits tailored to her situation. For Halyna, the UISSS system transformed from a mere technological tool into a lifeline, providing not just financial aid but also a sense of security and dignity during tumultuous times. Her case exemplifies how digitized social protection systems can offer not just efficiency but also empathy, aligning with the broader goal of sustaining the social contract in times of crisis.

Business Process Flow Chart for Halyna

Showcasing Impact: The Melnyk FamilyJourney

The Melnyk family's struggles amidst economic instability are a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by many in Ukraine. The family’s patriarch, Pavlo Melnyk alternatesbetween temporary construction roles while Olena Melnyk provides round-the-clock care for five young children, Kateryna, Andriy, Sofia, Mykola, and little Yaryna and her disabled sister Iryna. The complexity of the existing welfare system had previously hindered their ability to obtain much-needed support.

Accessing Multiple Forms of Assistance

With the implementation of the UISSS, the Melnyks experienced a significant transformation in accessing social welfare. The system's integrated approach enabled them to identify and apply for various assistance programs that were previously challenging to navigate:

» Family Assistance: The UISSS helped streamline their application for family assistance programs, ensuring that children like Kateryna, Andriy, Sofia, Mykola, and Yaryna receive the support to which they are entitled, such as the "Assistance for Families with Children" program.

» Disability Support: Iryna's needs were recognized promptly, providing her with disability benefits that include medical equipment and therapy coverage, as outlined in the "State Assistance to Persons with Disabilities" initiative.

» Employment Aid: Pavlo could apply for unemployment benefits through the system, which provided interim financial support as he searched for stable employment, aligning with the "Unemployment Insurance" program.

Each step in their journey, from the initial identification of needs to the receipt of benefits, was expedited and made transparent by the UISSS. A dedicated caseworker, Vladislava R., provided personalized assistance, developing a comprehensive plan that addressed the specific needs of each family member.

Impact of the UISSS on the Melnyk Family

The digitization of records and processes resulted in a swift approval of their applications within five working days, a drastic improvement in efficiency. Moreover, the direct deposit of benefits into their bank account monthly has introduced a much-needed predictability to their financial situation. The Melnyk family's experience is a testament to the potential of digital transformation in social protection systems to not only provide financial support but also to reinforce the dignity and stability of families in vulnerable situations. Their journey highlights the UISSS's role as an enabler of streamlined and responsive welfare services, setting a precedent for the positive impact of social protection reforms.

Business Process Flow Chart for The Melnyk Family's Journey

Bridging Support Gaps: The Kovalenko Family’s IDP Journey through the UISSS

The Kovalenko family, like many others, faced upheaval due to the humanitarian crisis in eastern Ukraine. Oleksandr Kovalenko, once a schoolteacher, struggled to find employment after displacement. His elderly father, Dmytro, suffered from a concussion injury, increasing the family’s vulnerability. With Oleksandr's wife Larysa working part-time and their three children adapting to a new environment, the family was in dire need of assistance.

Accessing Multiple Forms of Assistance

Upon registering as IDPs through the UISSS, the Kovalenko’s discovered a range of assistance options:

» Housing Assistance for IDPs: Recognizing their displacement, the UISSS facilitated housing assistance, helping the family secure temporary accommodation.

» Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI): The family qualified for GMI, providing them with monthly financial support.

» Other Stackable Programs: They could combine GMI with other assistance programs, such as War-Related Social Assistance and Childcare Support for Large Families.

Impact of the UISSS on the Kovalenko's Life

The UISSS streamlined the process of applying for and receiving various forms of social assistance, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles. The interlinking of their IDP status with financial needs assessment ensured the Kovalenko’s received tailored support. The UISSS’s integrated approach provided not just financial aid but a comprehensive support system, encompassing housing, income, and additional benefits. The system’s responsiveness and adaptability were crucial in offering the Kovalenko’s stability and a sense of security amid their displacement.

Thanks to amenable systems interaction, initial social stabilization now seems within reach for the Kovalenko’s. As they gradually integrate with host communities, systemic access improvements may signal similar hopes for over 6 million other IDPs rebuilding lives within Ukraine. As Ukraine grapples with mass internal displacement, coordinated identification and assistance for affected populations represents a key test for administrations and systems alike.

Business Process Flow Chart for The Kovalenko Family’s IDP Journey

Through our exploration with Halyna, the Melnyk, and Kovalenko families, we’ve illuminated the Unified Information System of the Social Sphere’s (UISSS) transformative effects on Ukraine’s social safety net. These narratives, while fictional, are deeply rooted in the real challenges and triumphs within the social protection landscape, showcasing the UISSS’s pivotal role in offering timely and tailored support.

These case studies not only highlight the UISSS’s effectiveness but also hint at areas ripe for further improvement and innovation. The journey of refining and enhancing Ukraine’s social protection system continues, with each advancement paving the way for more efficient, inclusive services.

Call to Action and Preview of Part 4

In Part 4 of our series, we’ll broaden our horizon to compare the UISSS with social protection data systems in other countries. We’ll explore what lessons Ukraine can learn and what insights the UISSS offers for future systems globally. Join us as we continue to explore the intersection of technology, policy, and social care, shaping a more interconnected and informed approach to social protection worldwide.

We value your input on this transformative journey. Share your insights, experiences, or queries about the UISSS or social protection systems in the comments or via direct message. Your contributions enrich our collective understanding and dialogue on digital transformation in social welfare.