Youth Policy in Gelsenkirchen: Innovation, Inclusion, and Investments in Focus

Youth Policy in Gelsenkirchen: Innovation, Inclusion, and Investments in Focus

Youth policy is a central component of urban development in Gelsenkirchen. In February 2026, the Committee for Children, Youth, and Families discussed numerous measures aimed at sustainably influencing the everyday lives of young people in the city. The focus was on inclusion, education, and financial security. Below, we highlight the most important developments and their backgrounds.

1. Inclusive Support for Young People with Disabilities

A central topic was the introduction and expansion of the "Procedure-Free Support for Young People with Disabilities." These support staff assist young people under the age of 27 in applying for and accessing support services under the SGB VIII and IX (Social Code Books VIII and IX) for social inclusion.

This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to enable young people with disabilities to lead independent lives. A full-time position has been created, though it is currently only filled at 50%. Simone Lill serves as the contact person and emphasizes that the support is free of charge, confidential, and low-threshold. Flyers, local office hours, and press releases are intended to raise public awareness.

This initiative marks a milestone in Gelsenkirchen’s inclusion policy and demonstrates how the city aims to remove structural barriers.

2. 2026 Budget Plan: Challenges and Investments

The 2026 budget planning reflects the growing importance of child and youth welfare. In the area of support services for upbringing, costs increased from 48.2 million euros (2020) to 78.2 million euros (2024). The reasons include rising case numbers and higher service rates.

At the same time, the city relies on funding programs such as the "kinderstark – NRW schafft Chancen" program, which provides 580,000 euros annually. These funds are crucial to cushion the financial burden on the city and enable investments in education and care.

The challenges are significant, but the budget also shows how Gelsenkirchen is preparing for the future: with new schools, renovations, and a strong focus on resilience.

3. Education and Infrastructure: Future-Oriented Spaces for Young People

In the area of education and infrastructure, investments are a top priority in Gelsenkirchen. The Education and Innovation Campus is a central component that will bring vocational training, makerspaces, and co-working spaces under one roof. With a total area of 32,500 square meters, the campus will be a forward-looking place for young people.

There is also much to do in school development: The new construction of a six-track comprehensive school with a sports hall on Europastraße is planned for 2029. In addition, the construction of a five-track primary school in the Wildenbruch area is being initiated.

These measures show that Gelsenkirchen sees education as the key to social participation and equal opportunities.

4. Youth Participation and Leisure Activities: Young Voices Matter

The city also emphasizes youth participation. The Youth Council serves as an advisory body within the committee, and young people have the opportunity to directly participate in meetings. In addition, Gelsenkirchen supports 43 open youth and children's activities held throughout the city.

Projects such as "VoiceUp!" and collaborations with youth organizations enable young people to shape their leisure time independently. Youth centers are protected through double staffing to prevent staff shortages and closures.

This participation is not just symbolic but a concrete investment in the city's future—and in the future of its youngest citizens.

Outlook: A Young City Needs Youth-Friendly Policy

The developments of February 2026 show how Gelsenkirchen is positioning itself as a youth-friendly city. With a strong focus on inclusion, investments, and participation, the city is pursuing long-term solutions that not only support but also empower young people.

The challenges, particularly in the financial area, are not to be underestimated. Yet the vision is clear: Gelsenkirchen wants to be a city where young people feel welcome, supported, and included—today and in the future.