Critérios teóricos de sustentabilidade na avaliação das instituições de solidariedade social

The aim of this research is to identify and build theoretical criteria in the determination of sustainability factors and evaluation models in this area of social solidarity institutions. A mixed method was used, based on two questionnaires: one for 138 social solidarity institution users and the other for 97 members of those institutions. To obtain qualitative data in the different areas under analysis, institution managers and local public authorities were also interviewed. The research produced knowledge that makes it possible to define seven new theoretical sustainability criteria: 1) support needs; 2) access to services; 3) suitability and quality of services; 4) culturality; 5) user satisfaction; 6) empowerment of institutions; and 7) relevance of the institutions. It also broadens two criteria already included in the literature: 1) interaction with society [and the state]; and 2) organisational structure [and functioning].