Youth care provides various forms of support to children and families in Utrecht. Since the introduction of the Youth Act in 2015, the responsibilities for youth care lie with the municipalities.
What help falls under youth care?
- Guidance on parenting and family matters
- Psychological support for young people (youth mental health care)
- Assistance with behavioural challenges
- Support for intellectual disabilities
- Foster care and residential care
- Child protection and supervision in youth probation
How do I access youth care in Utrecht?
| Contact point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Utrecht/neighbourhood team | First contact for help requests |
| GP | Refers to specialised care |
| Educational institution | Care coordinator provides support |
| Safe at Home Utrecht | For reports of unsafe situations |
| Youth court (District Court Midden-Nederland) | For compulsory help such as supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement |
Voluntary and compulsory help
In most cases, youth care is voluntary. In cases of serious safety risks, however, a court may impose compulsory measures, such as a supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement.
Role of certified institutions
Certified institutions (CIs) in Utrecht carry out protection measures and youth probation. They operate under strict supervision of the Inspectorate and have specific powers.
Costs of youth care
In Utrecht, youth care via the municipality is free of charge for parents. No own contribution is required, as the municipality covers the costs.
Filing complaints about child care
If you are dissatisfied with youth care in Utrecht, you can contact:
- The complaints department of the relevant organisation
- The AKJ (Advice and Complaints Office for Youth Care)
- The ombudsman of the municipality of Utrecht
- The Health and Youth Care Inspectorate
Can I choose my own care provider in Utrecht?
You may express a preference, but the municipality of Utrecht determines which help is assigned. For specialised care via the GP, you often have more options. For compulsory help, the choice is limited.What is the duration of youth care in Utrecht?
The length of the help varies per case. Some trajectories last only a few months, while others can span years. It is regularly reviewed whether continuation is necessary.Can I refuse youth care in Utrecht?
You may decline voluntary help. However, if there are serious concerns about your child's safety, a court may impose compulsory help via a protection measure.Frequently asked questions about youth care in Utrecht
How do I apply for youth care for my child in Utrecht?
Contact the neighbourhood team or youth consultant of the municipality of Utrecht. They will assess your situation and refer you to appropriate help. Alternatively, you can submit a request via the GP, school or Safe at Home Utrecht. The municipality ultimately decides on the allocation.
What distinguishes voluntary from compulsory youth care?
Voluntary help takes place with the consent of parents and/or child, such as guidance on parenting. Compulsory help is imposed by the youth court in cases of serious risks, for example via an OTS or out-of-home placement, where you have less say.
Are there costs associated with youth care in Utrecht?
No, help via the municipality of Utrecht is free for parents and children. There is no own contribution, although costs may arise for specific activities such as respite care. Inquire about this with the municipality.
What if I disagree with a decision on youth care?
You can file an objection with the municipality of Utrecht within six weeks via an objection letter. In addition, you can submit a complaint to the complaints committee, the AKJ, or the municipal ombudsman. For compulsory help, appeal to the youth court is possible.
How quickly does youth care start in Utrecht?
The waiting time depends on the type of help and the situation. Light help can start within weeks, while specialised care may take months. In cases of acute safety problems, intervention is faster. Ask the municipality of Utrecht for current waiting times.
Can my child request help themselves?
Yes, young people from 12 years old may independently request youth care in Utrecht, even without parental consent. For younger children, parental consent is required.
Contact details:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Legal Aid Office Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht