Criticism of the childcare system: Bruck-grumbling surcharge on the ground!

Criticism of the childcare system: Bruck-grumbling surcharge on the ground!

Bruck-Mürzzuschlag, Österreich - The situation of childcare in the Bruck-Mürzzuschlag district is serious. A report by the State Audit Office sums it up and criticizes the state government strongly in the area of "children's education and care". It is better elsewhere, here we occupy the 92nd place of 94 in terms of kindergarten places nationwide. For the local parents, this is not just dry statistics, it has a direct impact on the compatibility of family and work.

fewer places, increasing demand

The numbers are alarming. In 2024 there were 35,660 kindergarten places in Styria, compared to 36,189 in 2023, which means a decline of 529 places. The situation for the very smallest is particularly drastic- only 15.8 percent of zero to two-year-old children have a place in a facility in Bruck-Mürzzuschlag. Only a fraction of the planned 780 new crèche places was created: only 360 new places have been added. The degree of demand for the 0-2 year old was only 28.5 percent in 2024, which shows that many parents continue to be without adequate care options. NEOS boss Niko Swatek emphasizes a “construction of a construction” for childcare in the region to finally improve the situation.

help offers for parents

To help parents in this precarious situation, the state of Styria has launched the Kipo children's portal. This online portal provides an overview of children's cribs, kindergartens, children's houses and much more; A real ray of hope for everyone who is looking for extra -family forms of care at an early stage. It is now easier for the parents to find out about available places and to show their children in the desired facilities. The use of the portal becomes a duty, even with a personal request, which should make it easier to organize the care. Time is urged, because the reservations should take place in the year of the planned admission.

The challenges remain

Despite all efforts, it turns out that the challenges in childcare are still great. Many parents report a high demand for childcare places, especially for children in crèche age. The childcare rate for under three year olds was 36.4 percent on March 1, 2023, which is a maximum value, but still leaves many parents without a suitable place. Another critical point is the shortage of skilled workers: given the unfavorable personnel key in the facilities, the quality of the care often suffers.

It is clear that there is an urgent need for action. Citizens: Inside in Bruck-Mürzzuschlag, not only words, but above all actions and concrete solutions that support families in their everyday reality. This is the only way to live the compatibility of family and work - a goal that seems so close for many, but still so far.

in Styria, where not only the supply of the youngest, but the entire education system is being tested, all questions are still open. The next steps must lead to better support and more support for the families.