Social Affairs and Housing Policy in Solingen – Focus on Seniors, Homelessness Support, and Integration

Social Affairs and Housing Policy in Solingen: From Senior Projects to Homelessness Support

The city of Solingen has intensified its engagement with social issues in February 2026 – from promoting age-appropriate leisure activities to combating homelessness. Key actors such as the Senior Advisory Council, the municipal job center, and the specialist office for emergency housing assistance have adopted concrete measures aimed at strengthening social participation and sustainably improving the quality of life for the population.

Inclusive Projects in Focus of the Senior Advisory Council

The Senior Advisory Council of Solingen actively advocates for the interests of older people and supports projects that prioritize social participation, barrier-free access, and inclusion. In 2026, the thematic focus is “Senior Citizens Embrace Diversity” – an initiative aiming to strengthen cultural and social diversity in the city.

Supported projects include “Culinary World Travel for All Ages” or “Music and Painting for Senior Citizens,” which not only bring joy but also strengthen social connections. Particularly noteworthy is the project “Aqua-Fitness for Senior Women,” conducted in cooperation with a local association and promoting mobility and health.

Funding is applied for via applications, with a minimum grant of 500 euros. Only projects held in Solingen and carried out by local organizations are eligible for funding. Through such measures, the city aims to sustainably improve the quality of life for seniors and prevent isolation.

Emergency Housing Assistance and Homelessness Support – Challenges and New Approaches

Another central topic in the council's discussions was emergency housing assistance. The city of Solingen has consciously taken on the challenge of supporting homeless people – especially during the cold season. Several initiatives have been adopted, including the Malteser Cold Weather Bus, which provides advice, food, and winter equipment to homeless people from November to March on weekdays and Sundays.

In addition, the Housing First approach is being discussed, in which homeless people are directly placed in stable housing without prior preparatory support. In cooperation with religious organizations and the Technical Relief Agency (THW), it is being examined whether model projects such as the “Harburg-Huus” (Hamburg) or the “QuarTier” (Nuremberg) can be implemented in Solingen.

Another focus is the use of vacant buildings to provide at least temporary accommodation for homeless people. Furthermore, a central specialist office for emergency housing assistance is being established at Walter-Scheel-Platz, offering counseling, mediation, and support for homeless people – including those in need of care and homeless women.

Integration and Professional Opportunities for Refugees and Migrants

In Solingen's social policy, the integration of refugee and migrant population groups plays an important role. With the project “STArt 2026,” a new integration offer is being launched for entitled individuals with a migration background and limited German language skills. The goal is to promote entry into the labor market through language and qualification programs.

The Solingen Job Center also focuses on holistic support – with offers such as Job-BSK (job-accompanying vocational language courses), application centers, and individual coaching. Special support is given to women, single mothers, and young people seeking vocational training or employment.

Another focus is the digital transformation in employment services. With the planned OZG-Connector, online services will be optimized and processing times reduced to increase the efficiency of the job center.

Conditions for an Inclusive City Society

The measures in Solingen show: Social justice and participation are not abstract terms, but concrete fields of action. Whether through the promotion of creative projects for seniors, the support of homeless people, or the integration of refugees – the city is pursuing a policy that strengthens diversity and connects resources.

The challenges remain significant – especially against the background of rising rents, old-age poverty, and increasing social inequality. Yet the current policy in Solingen shows that it is possible to shape a city with preventive, inclusive, and solution-oriented approaches, in which all people feel welcome and supported.

Outlook: What's Coming in the Next Months?

In March 2026, the Committee for Social Affairs, Health, and Social Participation will make further decisions, including whether to deploy igloo emergency tents during cold periods. In addition, it will be examined whether the Municipal Housing Company will be established to provide affordable housing in the long term for those in need.

The current developments in Solingen make one thing clear: Social affairs and housing policy are not isolated issues, but closely interlinked. Only through interdisciplinary cooperation, early prevention, and clear social responsibility can an inclusive and liveable city emerge.