The Nordic Welfare Centre (NWC) is an institution under the Nordic Council of Ministers, serving as a platform for cooperation between the Nordic countries in the area of social affairs and public health.

Since 2017, NWC coordinates the Nordic network for age-friendly cities and communities and supports cooperation, knowledge exchange and policy development in this field across the Nordic region.

NWC’s work is guided by the Nordic Council of Ministers’ cooperation programme for health and social affairs 2025–2030, which aims to promote equal access to welfare services, good health and well-being, and inclusive societies where all citizens have the opportunity to live independent and meaningful lives.

As an affiliate, NWC facilitates knowledge exchange, produces and disseminates knowledge, and cooperates with networks and experts across ageing, public health and related welfare areas. NWC create meeting places, build networks and provide recommendations to decision-makers, acting as a bridge between research and practice.

Supporting age-friendly communities

NWC’s work on ageing and age-friendly communities is closely linked to its broader knowledge and project activities. Current areas of focus include:

• co creation with older adults, including those with a migrant background
• sustainable eldercare, including workforce competence and long-term care systems
• inclusive and accessible environments supporting participation and well-being.