Dutch municipal youth care and social support developments

In the Netherlands, municipalities are undergoing various structural changes to youth care and social support services (Wmo). In Etten-Leur, the municipality is implementing measures to improve services following a 2025 study. These efforts include developing collaborative facilities, transitioning from individual to group care arrangements, and establishing small-scale residential facilities to reduce the need for intensive, closed placements.

In Lelystad, an independent investigation by consultancy firm AEF revealed that the youth care mediator Jeugd Lelystad (JEL) utilized overly strict procedures. The report found that an emphasis on budget management led to inappropriate referrals and cases being closed without adequate assistance. The investigation also criticized the municipality of Lelystad for insufficient oversight and a lack of regional cooperation, noting that these failures contributed to a breakdown in trust. Following complaints regarding leadership, the director of JEL and the responsible alderman have departed.