Ghent (Belgium)

POPULATION

274,042

MAYOR

Mathias De Clercq

Proactive PUBLIC Services

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The City of Ghent, together with its digital partner District09 have launched a platform that proactively connects residents to their social benefits. One of their services they offer allows expectant parents to understand how to register their new-borns, bringing information on allowances, grants or discounts from all levels of government, so residents no longer need to submit repeated applications or proof of eligibility, which also saves time for city staff. 

By removing these barriers, the city ensures that no eligible resident, especially the most vulnerable, is left behind. They are also building a model that extends the service to other key life events, such as moving houses, starting school or registering a death in the family.