Antwerp abolishes 1,057 of the 3,213 social welfare benefits for people who lost their unemployment benefits

Antwerp granted social assistance to 3,213 individuals after their unemployment benefits were limited, but has since stopped payments for 1,057. Approximately 500 have found work, mainly through article 60 contracts, which provide work experience at a higher wage than the assistance. The city has increased its social service staff to manage the additional workload, with 10,000 notifications sent about benefit terminations. About 48% of those contacted the social services, but not all qualify for assistance. The city aims to enhance article 60 programs to facilitate job placements.