Gevelsberg: Youth Policy in Focus – Decisions Made in February 2026

Youth Policy in Gevelsberg: Decisions and Perspectives

The city of Gevelsberg made a wide range of decisions in February 2026 in the area of youth policy, which have both short-term effects on childcare offerings for children and young people and provide long-term planning security for the municipality. The Youth Welfare Committee was at the center of the activities, with a focus on childcare planning, budget drafts, and the development of offers within the framework of holiday programs.

Childcare Planning: 1,155 Kita Places for the Year 2026/2027

The city of Gevelsberg has opted for a clear childcare plan to meet the increasing demands in the field of early childhood education. During the Youth Welfare Committee meeting on February 19, 2026, the revision of the kindergarten demand plan was approved. According to this plan, a total of 1,155 Kita places are planned for children under and over three years of age for the kindergarten year 2026/2027. In addition, 90 daycare places are provided.

The planning is based on current birth rates and the demand for childcare places. The administration is tasked with submitting applications to the State Youth Office by March 15, 2026. At the same time, plans for the flexible opening hours of the Kita are being discussed. Talks with the providers on the design of inclusive early childhood education are also planned.

PlusKITAs: Recognition and Support for Kindergartens with a Special Focus

In February 2026, the recognition of child daycare facilities as plusKITAs was also discussed. These KITAs have a high proportion of children with special support needs, particularly in language promotion. A total of six slots are available, and six facilities – including Kita Zauberstern and the Ev. Kindergarten Haufe – were selected.

The funding amounts to a total of 37,902.29 € for the kindergarten year 2026/2027. The funds must be used appropriately, particularly for pedagogical staff. The recognition as a plusKITA is valid for a maximum of five years and can end prematurely if there are reforms in the Children's Education Act.

Budget Draft and Summer Holiday Program 2025 – Outlook for 2026

Another focus of the meeting was the budget draft 2026 for the Youth Welfare Committee. The draft was unanimously approved and forwarded to the main committee. The Youth Welfare Committee also recommended to adopt the budget for the year 2026 in accordance with the legal requirements.

In addition, a report on the summer holiday program 2025 was presented. Numerous organizations such as the Child Protection Association, the Adult Education Center (VHS), and the CVJM were involved. The administration also presented initial planning proposals for the year 2026. The aim is to provide a diverse range of leisure and educational activities for children and young people.

Further Decisions: Election of Chairperson and Secretary

In the wake of the local elections in September 2025, there were also organizational decisions to be made. The Youth Welfare Committee elected a new chairperson and a deputy in accordance with the legal requirements. In addition, two secretaries – Brigitte Rasche and Nicole Pattio – were appointed to ensure the documentation and recording of the meetings.

Conclusion: Stability and Expansion of Youth Policy in Gevelsberg

The decisions made in February 2026 show that Gevelsberg is relying on a stable expansion of youth policy. The childcare planning, the support for plusKITAs, and the planning for holiday programs are just a few examples of the comprehensive work of the Youth Welfare Committee. At the same time, structural security is also ensured – for example, through the election of chairpersons and secretaries. In the future, it will be important to evaluate the results of the holiday programs of 2025 and to check the Kita places in practice in order to make adjustments if necessary.