Youth Policy in Emden: From Addiction Prevention to Inclusive Education

Youth Policy in Emden: Challenges and Approaches

Youth policy is a central component of municipal development in Emden. In February 2026, several decisions were made to strengthen the protection, support, and development of young people in the city. At the same time, current data show that young people are increasingly suffering from mental stress, addiction problems, and social tensions. How is Emden responding to these developments?

School Social Work: A Successful Model with Impact

School social work at the Johannes-Althusius and Max-Windmüller Gymnasiums has proven to be a central approach for supporting students in crisis. A statistical evaluation documented over 1,000 counseling sessions in 1.5 years. The work includes topics such as mental stress, conflicts, and social isolation.

Collaboration with external institutions such as social services, parenting advice centers, the police, and psychological services is crucial. For example, a case study details the support of a student in the ninth grade after a panic attack. Through daily conversations with the school social worker, cooperation with the pediatrician and teaching team, it was possible to reintegrate the student into regular classes after the autumn break.

These successes show that structured school social work not only prevents emergencies but also has a preventive effect. However, resources for such offers are lacking nationwide, which is why Emden bears the costs itself – a financial burden that must be seen as an investment in the future.

Addiction Prevention: From Primary School to Gymnasium Level

The addiction prevention sector in Emden is another focus of youth policy. A study by the Aurich district shows that the starting age for alcohol and tobacco consumption is under 14 – a development that makes prevention measures urgently necessary.

In Emden, the project "Addiction Prevention in the District of Leer and the City of Emden" is running, funded by municipal funds and donations. The aim is to strengthen life skills and prevent substance use at an early stage. School projects such as "drop+hop" (Grade 6), "Green Backpack" (Grade 8), and "Abgezockt" (Grade 9+) have already reached more than 850 students.

Another project, "Inclusive Gymnasiums," is being continued at both Emden Gymnasiums. It provides school-based social work to support students with problematic behavior at work and in social situations. The cost of the measure is 88,000 euros, funded by the municipal share. The administration advocates for continuation from 2027 onwards, even though the measure will no longer be mandatory.

Kindergartens and Daycare Centers: Expansion of Childcare Structures

In addition to youth protection and educational policy, childcare issues were also in focus in February. With the "Emden Model 2.0," 1,438 childcare places were provided for the 2025/2026 year – an increase of 39 places compared to the previous year. The coverage rate for children under three is 45 percent, which does not yet meet legal requirements.

A new kindergarten under construction at the former Emsschule and another in Borssum are intended to increase capacity in the long term. At the same time, the waiting list currently stands at 48 places in kindergartens and daycare centers. Particularly in the central-south and northern kindergarten areas, there is still high demand.

The expansion planning is part of the legal obligation under § 24 SGB VIII and supports the compatibility of family and work. In addition, kindergarten provision is a central component for early childhood development and the social integration of young children.

Outlook: From Prevention to Inclusion

The developments in Emden show that youth policy is a multidimensional field. It includes not only the fight against addiction problems and mental stress, but also the strengthening of educational opportunities and the provision of early childhood care.

The youth welfare planning currently being advanced in the city will provide concrete recommendations from 2026 onwards. Transparent communication and coordinated measures between the administration, schools, and youth organizations are crucial.

The challenges are great – but the solutions being developed in Emden also show that sustainable youth policy is possible. It is based on cooperation, financial investment, and political will. Only this way can the future of youth in Emden be secured.