Youth care provides various forms of support to young people and families. Since 2015, municipalities, including Westland, have been responsible for youth assistance under the Youth Act.
What does youth assistance comprise?
- Assistance with parenting and family support
- Psychological care for young people (youth mental health care)
- Guidance for behavioral challenges
- Support for intellectual disabilities
- Foster care and residential care
- Youth protection and guidance in youth probation
How do I access youth assistance in Westland?
| Contact point | Description |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Westland/neighborhood team | First contact for assistance requests |
| General practitioner | Refers to specialized care |
| School | Care coordinator can arrange support |
| Safe at Home | For reports of unsafe situations |
| Youth court (District Court of The Hague) | For compulsory assistance such as supervision order or out-of-home placement |
Voluntary and compulsory youth assistance
In most cases, youth assistance is voluntary. However, in cases of serious safety risks, the court may impose compulsory measures, such as a supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement.
Role of certified institutions
Certified institutions (GIs) carry out tasks in the area of youth protection and youth probation. They operate under strict supervision of the Inspectorate and have specific powers.
Costs of youth assistance
In Westland, youth assistance via the municipality is free of charge for parents. No own contribution is required; the municipality covers the costs.
Complaints about youth assistance
If you are dissatisfied with youth care, you can contact:
- The complaints committee of the relevant organization
- The AKJ (Advice and Complaints Bureau for Youth Care)
- The ombudsman of the Municipality of Westland
- The Health and Youth Care Inspectorate
Can I express a preference for a care provider?
You may express a preference, but the Municipality of Westland determines which assistance is assigned. For specialized care via the general practitioner, there is often more room for personal choice. For compulsory assistance, the choice is limited.What is the duration of youth assistance?
The length of the assistance varies per case. Some trajectories last a few months, others may take years. It is regularly reviewed whether continuation is necessary.Can I refuse youth assistance?
You may refuse voluntary assistance. However, if there are serious concerns about the safety of your child, the court may impose compulsory assistance via a protective measure.Frequently asked questions about youth assistance in Westland
How can I apply for youth assistance for my child?
Contact the neighborhood team of the Municipality of Westland or the youth counselor. They will analyze your situation and refer you to suitable assistance. Alternatively, you can submit a request via the general practitioner, school, or Safe at Home. The municipality ultimately decides on the allocation. Be clear about your needs and expectations.
What distinguishes voluntary from compulsory youth assistance?
Voluntary assistance takes place with the consent of parents and/or child, such as guidance with parenting. Compulsory assistance is imposed by the youth court in cases of serious concerns about safety or development, for example via a supervision order or out-of-home placement, where you have less influence.
Are there costs associated with youth assistance?
No, youth assistance via the Municipality of Westland is free for parents and children. The municipality pays everything and there is no own contribution. For extras such as respite care, costs may sometimes apply; inquire about this with the municipality or care provider.
What if I disagree with a decision on youth assistance?
You can file an objection with the Municipality of Westland within six weeks via an objection letter. You can also submit a complaint to the institution's complaints committee, the AKJ, or the municipal ombudsman. For compulsory assistance, appeal to the youth court (District Court of The Hague) is possible.
How quickly does youth assistance start in Westland?
Waiting times vary depending on the type of assistance and the situation. Light support can start within a few weeks, while specialized care such as youth mental health care may take months. Check the current waiting times with the municipality. In cases of acute safety issues, immediate action is taken.
Can my child apply for assistance themselves?
Yes, young people from the age of 12 may independently apply for youth assistance, even without parental consent. For children under 12, consent from parents or guardian is required.