The Brussels region needs between 7,000 and 10,000 new childcare places for every household living there, according to a study published on Thursday in the academic journal Brussels Studies. More places are also needed for single-parent families and jobseekers with atypical working hours.
The number of births in Brussels has fallen sharply over the years, according to Brussels Studies. In 2023, the number of births was a quarter lower than in 2010. However, this does not mean that every baby is guaranteed a place in childcare. On 1 January 2023, the Belgian capital region had about 20,500 recognised childcare places, compared to almost 45,000 children under the age of 3.
Of course, not all parents choose to entrust their newborn baby to childcare. But according to a new study, the long process of getting a nursery place reflects the severe shortage of care for the very young. The study, carried out by ULB and UGent, shows that not all Brussels parents have equal access to childcare.
Unequal access
For example, it seems that practical access to daycare centres is often hampered by opening days and hours that are poorly adapted to atypical working hours. In addition to priority registration rules, the researchers found that childcare facilities are often sensitive to the situation of single parents.
The study therefore highlights the need to create between 7,000 and 10,000 childcare places, which are particularly needed in the western part of the Brussels Region. The researchers write that these places should preferably be priced according to parents’ income, so that they are accessible to job seekers, for example.
