Youth care provides various forms of support to children and their families. Municipalities, including Rijswijk, have managed youth assistance since 2015 in accordance with the Youth Act.
What does youth assistance entail?
- Assistance with parenting and family matters
- Psychological care for young people (youth mental health care)
- Support for behavioral challenges
- Guidance for intellectual disabilities
- Foster care and residential care
- Child protection and guidance for youth delinquency
How do I access youth assistance in Rijswijk?
| Contact point | Description |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Rijswijk/neighbourhood team | First contact for help requests |
| General practitioner | Refers to specialised care |
| School | Care coordinator provides support |
| Safe at Home | For reports of unsafe situations |
| Youth court (District Court of The Hague) | Decides on compulsory assistance such as supervision order |
Voluntary and compulsory youth assistance
In most cases, youth assistance is voluntary. In cases of serious safety risks, the court may impose compulsory assistance via a supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement.
Role of accredited institutions
Accredited institutions (AIs) are responsible for child protection and youth probation. They operate under strict supervision of the Inspectorate and have specific powers.
Costs of youth assistance in Rijswijk
Youth assistance via the Municipality of Rijswijk is free of charge for parents. No own contribution is required; the municipality funds the care.
Filing complaints about youth care
If dissatisfied with youth assistance, you can contact:
- The complaints committee of the relevant organisation
- The AKJ (Advice and Complaints Office for Youth Care)
- The Rijswijk ombudsman
- The Health and Youth Care Inspectorate
Can I choose my own care provider in Rijswijk?
You may express a preference, but the Municipality of Rijswijk determines which assistance is provided. For specialised care via the general practitioner, there is 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 decline voluntary assistance. However, if there are serious concerns about your child's safety, a court may impose compulsory measures via child protection.Frequently asked questions about youth assistance in Rijswijk
How do I apply for youth assistance for my child in Rijswijk?
Contact the neighbourhood team of the Municipality of Rijswijk. They will analyse 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 decides on the granting of assistance. Clearly explain why you are seeking support.
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 safety concerns, for example via OTS or out-of-home placement, where you have less say.
Are there costs associated with youth assistance?
No, assistance via the Municipality of Rijswijk is free. The municipality covers the costs and there is no own contribution. For extras such as respite care, costs may apply; inquire about this with the municipality.
What if I disagree with a decision on youth assistance?
You can file an objection with the Municipality of Rijswijk within six weeks via an objection letter. In addition, you can submit a complaint to the institution's complaints committee, the AKJ or the Rijswijk ombudsman. For compulsory assistance, appeal to the District Court of The Hague is possible.
How quickly does youth assistance start in Rijswijk?
The waiting time depends on the type of assistance and the situation. Light support can start within weeks, while specialised care such as youth mental health care may take longer. Check the current waiting times with the municipality. In cases of acute safety issues, intervention is faster.
Can my child apply for youth assistance themselves?
Yes, young people from the age of 12 may apply for assistance independently, even without parental consent. For children under 12, parental consent is usually required.