Fall's chill brings on a wave of sickness among daycare staff in Thuringia, leading to staff shortages and, at times, reduced opening hours. Manuela Kocksch, head of daycare centers at Caritas in the Erfurt diocese, confirmed the issue, saying, "Indeed, daycare center staff have been hit hard by this wave of illnesses." Certain daycare centers have had to close an hour early, with Kocksch reporting no complete facility closures yet.
The situation is particularly tight in border regions, where skilled workers tend to seek employment opportunities elsewhere, like Bavaria or Hesse. Places like Eichsfeld and Schmalkalden-Meiningen are notably affected. Kocksch notes, "Eichsfeld always faces staff shortages, and when staff are out due to sickness, it's a major challenge." Luckily, Erfurt has more stable staffing levels.
The Association for Social Welfare Organizations (AWO) in Thuringia also reports a wave of illness, leading to staff shortages, but with minimal impact on opening hours thus far. However, it's become increasingly challenging in smaller facilities.
The ongoing sicknesses also affect kindergartens, prompting social affairs departments to seek temporary solutions to ensure children receive adequate healthcare.
COVID-19 Impacts on Daycare Centers
While the article focuses on current issues in Thuringia, it's important to consider the broader impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on daycare centers. The pandemic led to extended closures, severe shortages of protective equipment, and demand for reusable disposable masks, especially for healthcare workers and daycare staff.
Temporary Solutions
Though specific temporary solutions in Thuringia aren't detailed, several measures implemented during the pandemic may serve as examples. These could include remote work arrangements, flexible scheduling, recruitment efforts for temporary or part-time staff, and adherence to strict hygiene protocols and regular testing. Collaboration with local health authorities to ensure access to protective equipment and rapid testing could also prove beneficial.
