Out-of-home placement means that a child temporarily does not reside at home, but is accommodated in a foster family, family home or institution. This is a severe measure that is only applied if no other solution is possible.
When is out-of-home placement considered?
An out-of-home placement can be requested in the following situations:
- The safety of the child at home is not safeguarded
- A supervision order (OTS) provides insufficient protection
- The child requires intensive, specialist care
- The situation at home is so unsafe that the child cannot remain
Types of out-of-home placement
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Network foster family | The child is placed with known persons, such as family or friends |
| Standard foster family | The child is placed with an unknown foster family |
| Family home | A small-scale living arrangement with professional supervision |
| Residential institution | A larger institution with therapeutic care |
| Secure youth care | Compulsory admission where the child may not leave the institution |
Procedure in Westland
- A certified institution or the Child Protection Board requests an authorisation
- The juvenile court judge, often via Rechtbank Den Haag, assesses the request
- Parents and the child (from 12 years old) have the opportunity to give their opinion
- The judge grants an authorisation for a specific period
- Extension can be requested if necessary
Duration of the measure
An out-of-home placement is generally imposed for a maximum period of 12 months. At the end, it is assessed whether extension is necessary. The aim is always to return the child home or find another sustainable solution.
Rights of parents in Westland
- Right to contact with the child via an established visitation arrangement
- Right to information about the child's situation
- Right to input in the action plan for support services
- Right to appeal the decision to the court
Secure youth care
In secure youth care, the child may not leave the institution. This requires a specific judicial authorisation, which is only granted in cases of serious behavioural problems or when the child poses a risk to themselves or others.
Do I retain parental authority during out-of-home placement?
Yes, in most cases parents retain parental authority. You remain involved in important decisions for your child, unless parental authority is terminated by the court.How often can I see my child?
This is determined in a visitation arrangement, depending on what is in the best interest of the child. You have the right to contact, unless it is detrimental to the child.Can I object to an out-of-home placement?
Yes, you can file an appeal with the court of appeal within 3 months. In addition, you can request the family guardian to conduct an earlier evaluation of the situation.Frequently asked questions
When can a child be placed out of home?
This can happen if the home situation is unsafe, an OTS does not provide sufficient help, the child needs special care, or the situation at home is untenable. This is always seen as a last resort. An institution or the Child Protection Board requests an authorisation from the juvenile court judge via Rechtbank Den Haag.
What is the duration of an out-of-home placement?
The measure lasts a maximum of 12 months, after which an evaluation follows. The goal remains to return the child home or find another stable place.
Can I continue to see my child?
Yes, you have the right to contact, unless it is harmful to the child. The visitation arrangement determines how often and in what way this contact takes place.
What if I disagree with the out-of-home placement?
You can file an appeal with the court of appeal within 3 months. You can also request an interim evaluation by the family guardian. Legal assistance, for example via Juridisch Loket Westland, can support this.
Do I lose my parental authority during out-of-home placement?
No, normally you retain parental authority and remain involved in important decisions about your child.