Foster care means that a child stays in another family for a short or longer period. The foster parents take on the daily care, while the biological parents often retain legal authority.
When is foster care needed?
Foster care can be used in the following situations:
- If the situation at home is temporarily unsafe
- If parents cannot care for the child due to personal problems (such as illness or a crisis)
- If a child needs specific care or guidance
- In a child protection measure such as supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement
Types of foster care
| Type | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis foster care | Immediate accommodation in emergency situations | Maximum 4 weeks |
| Temporary foster care | Accommodation with the aim of return to the parents | Often less than 2 years |
| Long-term foster care | Permanent upbringing by foster parents | Until adulthood |
| Part-time care | Accommodation during weekends or school holidays | Flexible |
| Kinship foster care | Accommodation by acquaintances such as family members or friends | Variable |
Who plays a role in foster care?
Various parties are involved in foster care:
- Biological parents: Often retain authority and decide on important matters
- Foster parents: Responsible for daily upbringing and care
- Foster care agency: Supports and guides foster parents
- Accredited institution: Supervises in case of OTS and coordinates
- Municipality of Westland: Responsible for funding under the Youth Act
Financial compensation for foster parents
Foster parents receive a monthly allowance for the child's costs:
- A basic allowance for daily care and upbringing
- Extra supplements for special needs of the child
- Child benefit is paid to foster parents
Rights of foster parents
- Support and guidance from a foster care organisation
- Access to relevant information about the child
- Objection right after long-term placement (refusal of return placement)
- Co-determination in important decisions after one year
What distinguishes foster care from adoption?
In foster care, the biological parents usually remain legally responsible, whereas in adoption, the adoptive parents fully take over authority and the legal bond with the biological parents is severed. Foster care is often temporary, adoption is permanent.Do parents stay in contact with their child during foster care?
In most cases, yes. A visitation arrangement is established, often with the aim of possible return home. In long-term foster care, contact may however be limited.What if parents want their child back?
This is carefully examined. In voluntary foster care, parents usually have the right to return placement. In a compulsory placement, the court decides. Foster parents can exercise their objection right after one year.Frequently asked questions about foster care in Westland
How can I become a foster parent in Westland?You can register with a foster care organisation or contact the Municipality of Westland. A screening follows (suitability assessment, home visit, training) and a matching process. This usually takes 3 to 6 months. You receive guidance and compensation for the costs. What is the monthly compensation for foster parents?
The compensation varies between €900 and €1,200 per month, depending on the age and needs of the child. In addition, you receive child benefit and possibly extra supplements for special care. This compensation is tax-free. Can foster parents refuse to return a child?
After one year, foster parents have an objection right, with which they can refuse return placement if it is not in the child's best interest. In voluntary foster care, parents can request their child back, but the foster care organisation assesses safety. In compulsory placement, the court decides. What rights do biological parents have in foster care?
Parents often retain authority and have the right to information about their child. They co-decide on important matters such as education and medical care. A visitation arrangement is agreed, unless the court decides otherwise. Assistance is provided to make return possible. What happens when a foster child turns 18?
Upon reaching majority, the formal foster care arrangement ends, but many foster families remain involved with the child.
Relevant institutions in Westland:
- Court: District Court of The Hague (district)
- Legal Aid Office: Legal Aid Office Westland