Social institutions that manage daycare centers in Portugal face increasingly greater difficulties in recruiting early childhood educators. The shortage of qualified professionals is putting at risk the functioning of these institutions, which are essential for many families.
Many educators are being absorbed by the public school system, which offers better salaries and working conditions. This exodus of professionals leaves social daycare centers with fewer staff available to ensure their services.
At the same time, demand for daycare spots has been increasing, requiring these institutions to expand their capacity to respond. However, without enough educators, when a classroom is left without a responsible professional, the solution is to close it.
Families are the most affected by this situation, potentially ending up paying the price for this human resources crisis in the daycare sector. The problem directly affects children's access to adequate childcare.
