Belgium

Paragraphs that mention volunteering No mention Paragraphs that mention the integration of volunteering into development plans, policies and strategies

Paragraph 1, page 113

Larger municipalities tend to have higher poverty rates and therefore undertake various initiatives, including in the context of free time. For example, the city of Genk (more than 67,000 inhabitants) organises volunteer talent coaches who explore various leisure activities with preschoolers from vulnerable families (e.g., newcomers). The coach tailors their approach to the family and makes every decision in consultation with the parents according to the self-reliance of the child after the course. The city government provides training for the coaches and works with various partners to direct families toward the project.

Paragraph 2, page 114

Another example is the 'Caring Neigbourhoods', in which 133 Flemish and Brussels municipalities participate. The programme focuses on strengthening the social fabric and solidarity, connecting informal and formal care and intersectoral cooperation (e.g. welfare partners, housing, youth, spatial planning). During the corona pandemic, municipal governments took additional measures to ensure much-needed civic services. Volunteers or municipal staff called elderly residents, and municipalities set up emergency hotlines for residents in need of a chat. In this way, municipalities tackled loneliness and identified care needs.