Inclusion and Senior Policy in Velbert: Social Participation in Focus

Inclusive Playgrounds and Senior Policy: Social Participation in Velbert in March 2026

The city of Velbert has intensified its focus on social participation in March 2026. The Committee for Social Affairs, Family, and Seniors played a central role, particularly in the discussion on inclusive playgrounds and the expansion of senior care. These measures are not only a sign of social responsibility but also a step toward a more inclusive and age-appropriate urban design.

Inclusive Playgrounds: From Idea to Implementation

A central topic was the joint proposal by the parliamentary groups of CDU, Alliance 90/The Greens, and FDP – Velbert Together for the creation of inclusive playgrounds. The goal is to redesign existing playgrounds in Velbert so that they are equally accessible to children with and without disabilities.

The Herminghauspark, the area around Schloss Hardenberg, and the old horse market in Langenberg are in the spotlight. The concept will not only address spatial design but also outline a clear schedule and possible funding sources. The city's representative for people with disabilities, Ms. Lisa Weniger, is directly involved in the planning. In addition, dialogue with potential project partners is being pursued to generate financial support.

The initiative was inspired by the Mary-Ward Foundation, which promotes more inclusion with the motto "We are all different – and that's normal." Inclusive playgrounds are not just a technical project but a social process that fosters encounters and respect.

Care Planning and Senior Policy: Outlook and Recommendations

In addition to youth and family policy, senior care was also a central topic. The senior advisor presented the results of the local care planning for Velbert for the reporting period 2023–2025. The planning analyzes current care needs, compares the existing infrastructure with future projections, and formulates recommendations.

Velbert has the clear mandate to actively accompany the demographic change. The city intends to establish a seventh senior center in Birth to close a structural gap in care. The facility is intended for approximately 3,500 residents aged 60 and over and is expected to be operational by the end of 2026. The provider SKFM – Velbert Dienstleistungs gGmbH has successfully applied and will now obtain the funding approval from the Mettmann district.

Refugee Policy: Recent Developments

Another relevant point was the report on recent developments in the area of "refugees." Velbert continues to advocate for a socially responsible refugee policy and collaborates closely with state authorities and NGOs. The focus is on long-term integration as well as the provision of housing and social care.

Conclusion: Velbert as an Inclusive City in Transition

Velbert is demonstrating in 2026 that it is a pioneer in the field of social participation. With initiatives to create inclusive playgrounds and expand senior care, the city not only meets social demands but also actively shapes the future. The collaboration between politics, economy, and civil society is key. Velbert proves that inclusion and social security are not just visions, but concrete and implementable projects.