The Ministry of Social Policy has developed a draft law aimed at increasing the birth rate and supporting parents. The document was published by the Federation of Trade Unions of Ukraine.
Among the proposed initiatives are a number of new social payments:
- a one-time payment of 50,000 hryvnia to every woman after the birth of a child;
- prenatal support for pregnant women (100% of wages for insured women and 7,000 hryvnia for uninsured women);
- postnatal recovery assistance — the amount will be determined by the government after the bill is passed;
- childcare assistance — to one of the parents or a relative who actually provides care.
The Ministry of Social Policy also proposes to introduce the ‘Yasla’ programme — compensation for the cost of childcare in kindergartens, private institutions or individual entrepreneurs who provide relevant services.
In addition, students will receive a one-time ‘School Package’ allowance to purchase school supplies, books, clothing and footwear.
At the same time, as before, a one-time ‘Baby Package’ allowance will be provided upon the birth of a child.
The government believes that these steps will strengthen support for families with children and encourage parents to find employment, as well as stimulate the development of a network of private pre-school education institutions.
The document has been sent to the relevant ministries and other parties for approval.