The Know-how Centre for Alternative Care for Children (KHC), Bulgaria

Overview

The Know-how Centre for Alternative Care for Children (KHC) is an interdepartmental research centre within New Bulgarian University. KHC works within a framework defined by the human and children’s rights paradigm, with a systematic emphasis on the empowerment of participants.

Mission and Vision

The KHC’s mission is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge, social practice, and policy-making by integrating the unique voices and lived experiences of children and families into the research process. We envision a just and inclusive society where scholarly research serves as the driver for action, specialized training empowers communities, and strategic advocacy shapes evidence-based public policies.

Core Activities

KHC applies a multi-dimensional approach:

  • the implementation of participatory research in partnership with children and parents ensures that policy analysis and practice evaluations align with international human rights standards.

  • the integration of contemporary academic research and rights-based methodologies facilitates the capacity building of child welfare professionals.

  • the development of evidence-based social models ensures that innovation is systematically grounded in the best interests of the child.

  • the cultivation of strategic partnerships between institutional and civil society organizations acts as a catalyst for systemic policy change at both national and international levels.

Programmes

Master's Degree (postgraduate): MA Psychosocial Interventions with Children and Families (Department of Health and Social Work, New Bulgarian University) (The programme thought both in Bulgarian and in English)

Short Degrees CAS/DAS: Social Work with Children at Risk and Their Families in the Child Protection System (School of Professional and Continuing Education, New Bulgarian University)

Summer School: Children’s Rights in Action (This is a joint effort of the Know-how Centre and UNICEF Bulgaria, currently under development, excepted to be officially announced in the academic year 2026/2027.)