After the COVID-19 crisis, Almere, Lelystad, Noordoostpolder and Dronten received some EUR 4 million from the European Social Fund by way of support for the local economy. Several projects were given backing, with the focus on providing guidance for vulnerable young people and long-term jobseekers and on helping them to find employment. For instance, youth traineeships and vocational training were funded and better coordination between employers and the labour market was ensured.

A healthy mind in a healthy body, including in the workplace! That is the idea behind a series of European projects on well-being at work. Several Almere-based firms in the automotive, care and sports sector were given EU support to make the working day better and healthier. In cooperation with workers, a number of actions were put in hand in connection with reducing stress, fostering team spirit and clear communication with employers.

Nature reserves around Almere and Lelystad are protected under special EU legislation designed to ensure that local ecosystems and biodiversity can be preserved. Cases in point are IJsselmeer, Markermeer, IJmeer, and Gooimeer and Eemmeer.

People with a physical disability are still inconvenienced often in buildings and public places, e.g. because of high steps or a lack of lifts. In the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, an initiative was launched so that people with walking difficulties can also enjoy nature. For example, two new walking paths have been built, and the bird watching hut has been modernised and renovated so that wheelchair users, too, can admire the area.