Social and Housing Issues in Erlangen – Focus on Senior Work and Youth Integration in March 2026

Senior Work and Youth Integration: A New Form of Participation in Erlangen

In March 2026, the city of Erlangen took a decisive step in promoting intergenerational cooperation. The Senior Advisory Council and the Youth Parliament met together for the first time to discuss ways to develop future projects. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to more strongly involve social groups in political decision-making processes and to promote social participation.

Restructuring of the Social Office: Focus on Seniors

A central topic of the March meeting of the Senior Advisory Council was the presentation of the reorganization of the senior services within the Social Office. Referent Maria Pöhlmann introduced the new structure, which aims to better meet the needs of older citizens. The restructuring includes, among other things, stronger networking between the various social services and better coordination in the care of seniors within the city. The goal is to improve care and offer more citizen-oriented services.

Joint Session: Senior Advisory Council Meets Youth Parliament

The joint session of the Senior Advisory Council and the Youth Parliament on March 23, 2026 marked a milestone in intergenerational cooperation. From 5:30 PM onward, representatives of both councils discussed topics relevant to both groups, such as digital participation, leisure activities, and social integration. Concrete projects were proposed that are to be implemented in the coming months. A particular focus was placed on developing activities that appeal to both seniors and youth while simultaneously strengthening the bridge between generations.

Information Booth and Public Relations: Transparent Politics in the City

In addition to the meetings, there was also an initiative to improve public relations. The Senior Advisory Council set up an information booth at the Rädli to inform citizens about its work and highlight the planned projects. This action is part of a broader effort to make the work of the advisory council more transparent and to raise more people's awareness of social issues.

The city of Erlangen is thus setting a pioneering focus in social policy. By strengthening participation and promoting intergenerational projects, not only is social cohesion strengthened, but a sustainable political model is also developed that is based on cooperation and dialogue.