Brussels needs up to 10,000 extra childcare places, study shows
The Brussels region needs between 7,000 and 10,000 new childcare places for every household living there, according to a study published on Thursday in the academic journal Brussels Studies. More places are also needed for single-parent families and jobseekers with non-standard working hours.
The number of births in Brussels has fallen sharply over the years, according to Brussels Studies. In 2023, the number of births was a quarter lower than in 2010. However, this does not mean every baby is guaranteed a place in childcare. On 1 January 2023, the region had about 20,500 recognised childcare places, compared to almost 45,000 children under the age of three.
Not all parents choose to entrust their newborn baby to childcare, but according to the study, the long process of getting a nursery place reflects the severe shortage of care for the very young. The study, carried out by ULB and UGent, shows that not all Brussels parents have equal access to childcare.
Unequal access
Access is often hampered by opening times that are poorly adapted to atypical working hours. In addition to priority registration rules, the researchers found that childcare facilities are often sensitive to the situation of single parents.
The study highlights the need to create between 7,000 and 10,000 extra places, which are particularly needed in the west of Brussels. The researchers say these places should be priced according to parents' income, so they are accessible to job seekers, for example.
© BELGA PHOTO ANTHONY DEHEZ
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