Türkiye Launches 24/7 Childcare Centers for Public Workers
Türkiye Introduces 24/7 Childcare Centers for Public Employees
Türkiye has introduced new regulations governing childcare centers operated by public institutions, with the updated rules officially entering into force after publication in the Official Gazette.
The reform is designed to better support public employees working night shifts and irregular schedules, helping them balance professional responsibilities with family life.
For the first time, public childcare centers will be allowed to operate around the clock, including weekends, to meet the needs of shift workers.
24/7 Childcare for Shift Workers
The new regulations allow public institutions to establish childcare centers with flexible operating hours, including:
- 🕒 24-hour service.
- 📅 Weekend and holiday operation.
- 🌙 Night-time childcare for employees working shifts.
The changes primarily benefit public sector workers whose schedules extend beyond traditional working hours.
These include:
- 👩⚕️ Doctors and healthcare professionals.
- 🩺 Nurses and medical staff.
- 👮 Police officers.
- 🪖 Military personnel.
- 🏛️ Other government employees working rotating shifts.
Lower Threshold for Opening Childcare Centers
The government has also made it easier to establish workplace childcare facilities.
Previously, at least 50 children were required before a public institution could open a childcare center.
Under the new rules, a center can now be established following a written request from 30 public employees.
In areas with particularly high demand, local authorities may approve the opening of childcare centers even if fewer than 30 children are enrolled.
First Major Reform Since 1987
According to the Ministry of Family and Social Services, the previous regulations had remained largely unchanged since 1987 and no longer reflected today's working conditions or the needs of modern families.
The reform aims to improve work-life balance, particularly for employees who work evenings, nights, weekends, or rotating shifts.
Higher Safety and Quality Standards
The updated legislation also introduces new requirements for childcare facilities themselves.
- 🏗️ Buildings must comply with modern construction and earthquake safety standards.
- 👶 Age groups will be organized according to updated educational guidelines.
- 👩🏫 Staffing requirements have been revised to better reflect children's developmental and psychological needs.
The new regulations are expected to improve childcare access for thousands of public sector families across Türkiye, regardless of parents' working hours.
