Image
Reversing the trend – How to support people in settling down in SPAs: Comeback Elbe-Elster
Published on 04 June 2019
Germany
Brandenburg
This is the good practice's implementation level. It can be national, regional or local.
About this good practice
The objective of "Comeback Elbe-Elster" is to curb the demographic change in the countryside of the Elbe-Elster region, an economically weak area in southern Brandenburg on the border with Saxony. The initiative aims at better marketing and campaigning for the economic and social potential of the region. CEE pursues this goal through the provision of bespoke consulting services to prospective returnees or newcomers as well as via further marketing and outreach campaigns and services.
Resources needed
There is no information provided.
Evidence of success
Of the estimated 400 consultations with individuals interested in moving to the Elbe-Elster region, an estimated 100 persons have eventually decided to move (back) to southern Brandenburg. Besides this benefit for municipalities and the entire region, the upsides for returnees are manifold: Moving to a rural area usually means significantly lower living costs and higher disposable income. Another advantage for many families moving back to their home region, is the closeness to their social ties.
Potential for learning or transfer
By now, Welcome Centers such as CEE have spread not only in Brandenburg (there are now 13 Welcome Agencies in Brandenburg), but throughout all of Germany. Thus, the concept can be regarded a successful social innovation, particularly useful for sparsely populated areas which often need such advocacy and consulting agents.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
Organisation
Willkommensagentur “Comeback Elbe-Elster”
Germany
Brandenburg
Contact
Head of International Projects & Cooperation