Finding a job or starting training can be tough for anyone, but for parents of young children, it’s even harder. Without childcare, opportunities can quickly feel out of reach. In Brussels, Njakou Marcellin and his wife found themselves in exactly this situation. 

‘My wife wanted to start a training programme, and I’m self-employed,’ Njakou explained. ‘We needed someone to care for our daughter, but we didn’t know where to turn. It was stressful.’

Through word of mouth, they heard about a network of childcare centres run by Actiris, the public employment service in Brussels, Belgium. Just a few days after getting in touch, their daughter had a spot in one of the centres. ‘It was such a relief,’ Njakou said. ‘My wife could start her training straight away, and I could carry on with my work.’

This is the reality for many parents. They want to build a better future, but the lack of affordable, reliable childcare can leave them stuck. This is where Actiris’s childcare initiative steps in. Supported by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), the service makes it possible for parents to leave their children in safe hands while they take their next steps – whether that’s looking for a job, signing a contract, or attending training.

Vanessa Gomez, who manages one of the childcare centres, knows just how big a difference this service can make. ‘We’re here for parents who need that support,’ she explained. ‘At our centres, we care for children under the age of three so their parents can focus on getting back to work or gaining new skills. We also provide home assistance for families with triplets or quadruplets, and we coordinate a wider network of childcare providers for parents in training.’

For families like Njakou’s, this support is life changing. Instead of having to choose between their children and their future, parents can finally move forward with confidence, knowing their little ones are safe and cared for.

By removing this obstacle, the project opens up new opportunities, helping families to build better lives. It’s not just about childcare, it’s about creating a chance for parents to focus on their goals while their children grow in a nurturing environment. Thanks to ESF+ funding, more parents in Brussels are getting the support they need to take that next step.