本稿では、島根県を研究対象として、「支援の対象とするべき生活困窮者像」を検討するとともに、生活困窮者自立相談支援事業の取り組みの現状と課題を明らかにした。これに併せて、島根県におけるより効果的な生活困窮者の自立支援を進めるための支援の方向性を検討した。島根県では、稼働年齢層と考えられる者に支援ニーズが多いという特徴が明らかになった。また、小規模自治体を中心に単独での中間的就労の場や社会参加の場の整備への対応が困難なケースもあり、都道府県や近隣自治体との連携による柔軟な対応が迫れていることも明らかになった。小規模自治体の多い島根県では、各自治体の強みを活用した広域連携の形成が課題と言えよう。そのために、都道府県と小規模自治体あるいは市町村間での連携・役割分担を進めることができる生活困窮者自立支援制度の改正が求められる。

In this study, covering Shimane Prefecture, “model of needy persons who should be support target” were examined, as well as the current situation and challenges faced by the consultation and support program for the independence of needy persons were clarified. In addition, the direction of the supports was examined to promote more effective supports for the independence of needy persons in Shimane Prefecture. As a result, it was indicated that in Shimane Prefecture persons who are considered to be in the workforce age group have a greater need for support. Furthermore, in some cases, mainly small municipalities had difficulties to provide by itself opportunities for preliminary work experience toward regular work and social participation. Therefore, it was also clarified that such municipalities are under pressure to deal with this issue flexibly in cooperation with the prefectural government and neighboring municipalities.