5.6.5

Childcare Facilities for Faculty and Staff

The University of Thessaly (UTh) recognizes that access to reliable and affordable childcare is vital for fostering a supportive, inclusive, and productive working environment. This policy ensures that all faculty and administrative staff with family responsibilities are provided with opportunities for childcare support, in line with the University’s commitment to gender equality, well-being, and work–life balance.

Purpose and Strategic Framework

This policy aims to:

Facilitate work–life balance for faculty and staff with young children.

Support gender equality by reducing barriers for parents—especially women—to pursue academic and professional advancement.

Comply with Greek Law 4808/2021, Law 1566/1985 (Article 7), and European Directive 2019/1158 on work–life balance for parents and carers.

Enhance staff retention, satisfaction, and performance through family-friendly infrastructure and benefits.

Scope

Applies to:

All academic, research, and administrative staff of the University who are parents or legal guardians of children under six (6) years of age.

University departments responsible for Human Resources, Infrastructure, and Welfare Services.

Key Provisions

Access to Childcare Facilities

The University shall establish and maintain on-campus childcare centers, either directly or in partnership with municipal or private licensed providers.

Facilities will operate during standard working hours, with extended services during examination or peak academic periods.

Enrollment priority is given to:

Single parents,

Faculty and staff with young children, and

Families with documented caregiving needs.

Financial Support

Staff members may also access national or European funding schemes that support work–family balance (e.g., ΕΣΠΑ childcare vouchers).

Health, Safety, and Quality Standards

Facilities must comply with Greek national childcare regulations, including building safety, hygiene, and child–staff ratio standards.

Staff employed in childcare centers must be qualified early childhood educators.

Regular inspections and quality reviews shall ensure continuous improvement.

Flexible Work Arrangements

Faculty and staff who are parents of young children may request flexible work schedules, remote work, or adjusted teaching hours in coordination with their supervisors.

These arrangements will not negatively affect promotion, evaluation, or remuneration.

Governance and Oversight

The Administrative Office shall oversee implementation and eligibility procedures.

Annual reports will be submitted to the Governing Council.

Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years to reflect legislative updates and evolving family needs among University staff.

Childcare Facility at Gaiopolis Campus