Flemish municipalities face childcare funding and cost challenges

New regulations regarding after-school childcare in Flanders are leading to varied impacts across municipalities. According to a survey by the Association of Flemish Cities and Municipalities (VVSG), one in three municipalities will see an increase in childcare costs starting September 1. While many local governments are investing significant funds—such as Halle, which is allocating 1.8 million euros to take childcare under direct municipal management—the VVSG warns that financing remains the primary challenge for meeting the ambitions of the new Flemish decree.

The decree aims to better align after-school and holiday activities by placing local authorities in charge of coordination. While nearly half of the surveyed municipalities report an increase in activities, the VVSG emphasizes that success depends on sufficient regional funding and clear subsidy rules.

In Ninove, Forza Ninove is implementing measures to improve accessibility for working families. Starting September 1, the organization is providing free bus transport on Wednesday afternoons to the ‘t Kadeeken after-school care center for primary school students across all educational networks. This initiative is intended to reduce barriers and make childcare more affordable and easier to organize.