Salzgitter: Youth Policy in April 2026 – Care, Inclusion, and Participation in Focus

Ensuring After-School Care – a Central Focus

Ensuring after-school care at primary schools was a central issue in Salzgitter in April 2026. On April 9, the Youth Welfare Committee discussed a motion from the CDU municipal group, which aims to secure the continuation of after-school and day-care services for children in grades 1–3 starting from the summer holidays of 2026. The goal is to maintain the existing care services until the school year 2029/2030 and to inform parents promptly.

The discussion was marked by uncertainty: there are still no clear answers as to whether after-school care will be offered at all primary schools for grades 2 to 4. The nationwide legal entitlement to full-day education and care applies to all first graders starting from the school year 2026/2027, emphasizing the urgency of the decisions. Against this backdrop, clear planning by the summer holidays of 2026 is required.

Youth Parliament: Exclusions and Participation

In April, Salzgitter’s Youth Parliament convened on April 30 and faced a particular challenge: two members, Can Joel Kaya and Lina Josephine Dahms, were proposed for exclusion due to repeated absences without stated reasons. According to the rules of procedure, such an exclusion requires a two-thirds majority. Both proposals had already been invalid once due to formal inaccuracies in their formulation.

These incidents highlight how sensitive the participation of young people in political bodies is. In addition, the Youth Parliament addressed various topics, including the “Day Against Racism,” the “Cinema Day,” and reports from the Youth Welfare Committee. Furthermore, a request on local school social work was discussed, which will be answered in collaboration with the Regional Office for Schools and Education.

Inclusion and Technology: Evaluation of the MindTags App

Another highlight of April was the evaluation of the app “MindTags” as an inclusion tool in the town halls of Lebenstedt and Bad. The app supports people with visual impairments and deafblind users in orienting themselves in buildings and accessing information. A test and pilot phase will evaluate potential costs and areas of use. The results are to be presented to the specialist committees and the Council.

This project underlines Salzgitter's efforts to advance the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to use digital solutions for inclusive urban development.

School Forests and School Social Work: Expansion of Services

In addition, the use and enhancement of school forests were discussed in meetings of the Youth Welfare Committee and the Youth Parliament. The administration is being asked about the number, locations, and usage of school forests, with a special focus on their use by associations and citizens. Planned measures include information boards, seating areas, and a “School Forest Open Day.”

In addition, local school social work is active in primary schools, special needs schools, and the Integrated Secondary School (IGS) in Salzgitter. Currently, all 10 positions for local school social work are filled, with 13 professionals working in part- or full-time roles. One further position is currently being advertised.

Outlook: Young People at the Center

April 2026 has shown that Salzgitter is actively addressing the needs of young people – from ensuring after-school care to inclusion projects and participation in political bodies. The challenges are diverse, but the city is relying on transparent communication, early planning, and innovative solutions to meet the needs of the younger generation.