Youth Policy in Krefeld: Structure, Funding, and Future Perspectives in February 2026

Structural and Personnel Tasks of Youth Welfare in Krefeld

In February 2026, the Youth Welfare Committee in Krefeld underwent a structural reorganization. Councilwoman Stella Rütten took on the role of Chair, supported by Britta Oellers and Julia Paschek as Vice-Chairs. Ralf Weyers and Sascha Radusch are responsible for the written documentation of the committee meetings. The planning of the meeting dates for 2026 has already been completed, with sessions scheduled for March, June, September, and November.

This clarity in personnel and structure is essential for the continuous and transparent handling of youth policy issues. The committee's tasks range from the care of young people to the promotion of youth participation and the provision of youth-friendly leisure activities. In a time when the future of young people is closely linked to the future of the city, a functional organization is a necessary foundation for political action.

Funding and Expansion of Childcare

Childcare in Krefeld is a key issue in youth policy. For the year 2026/2027, 8,081 children are enrolled in day care centers (Kindertagesstätten, or Kita). The total cost of care, including child allowances and cold rents, amounts to about 106 million euros. The state subsidy for 2026 is approximately 42 million euros, with a total of 63 million euros planned for the 2026/2027 period.

Day care by private caregivers is another important component of the childcare landscape. Currently, there are 250 day care providers looking after 1,000 children. The cost for this is about 1.4 million euros. In addition, 60 QHB grants (Qualification for Home-Based Care) have been approved. The funding for day care is secured through a retention allowance of 514.57 euros per month per substitute place.

The city plans to create a total of 10 substitute places in day care by 2027, two per district. A central substitute support center is planned in the Old Fire Station. These measures aim to increase the reliability of childcare services and provide parents with planning security.

Youth Participation and Cultural Offerings

Krefeld is increasingly focusing on the participation of young people in the political and cultural shaping of the city. The Children's Parliament, launched in November 2025, is a central element of this strategy. Children aged 8 to 13 can engage in organizations and send up to three representatives. A budget of 500 euros is available for projects decided upon in the Children's Parliament.

In 2026, the Youth Advisory Board program is diverse: offerings such as Speed Debating, Open Friday, World Children's Day, and Hate Speech Workshops are designed to involve young people in topics such as democracy, tolerance, and social participation. Holiday programs, such as the Easter Care at eight locations, also offer an alternative to everyday leisure activities.

Prevention, Education, and Integration

Another focus of youth policy in Krefeld is the promotion of preventive work and integration. The "Connect Krefeld" project uses funds from North Rhine-Westphalia to support refugee youth in democratic development and integration. Until December 31, 2026, 86,080 euros are available.

In addition, events such as the International Cookbook, the simulation game "Crefeldia," or the soap box derby are planned. These offerings not only promote cultural diversity but also intercultural exchange. The Anti-Violence Week 2025 already reached 550 students and 60 professionals, showing that prevention has a high priority in youth policy.

Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities

Youth policy in Krefeld faces the challenge of stabilizing structures while also setting new impulses. The childcare landscape must adapt to changing family models, growing demands for quality, and increasing population diversity. At the same time, digital and cultural offerings open up new opportunities to reach and inspire young people.

The planned introduction of substitute support centers and the assurance of reliability in childcare are steps in the right direction. In addition, the support for the Kommunal-O-Mat in cooperation with young people shows that the city of Krefeld is ready to actively shape civic education.

In 2026, it will be crucial to consistently implement political impulses from youth welfare and integrate the results into the city's future strategy. Only in this way can Krefeld remain a livable city for all generations – and especially for the future designers of tomorrow.