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 parental authority.
When is foster care needed?
Foster care is used in situations such as:
- An unsafe home situation for a temporary period
- Parents who, due to personal problems (such as illness or crisis), cannot care for their child
- A child that requires intensive or specialised care
- In a child protection measure, such as supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement
Types of foster care in Utrecht
| Type | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis foster care | Acute accommodation in emergency situations | Maximum 4 weeks |
| Temporary foster care | Accommodation with the aim of return to parents | Often less than 2 years |
| Long-term foster care | Permanent upbringing by foster parents | Until adulthood |
| Part-time accommodation | Accommodation during weekends or school holidays | Depending on the situation |
| Kinship foster care | Accommodation by known persons (family or friends) | Variable |
Involved parties in foster care
Various authorities and persons play a role:
- Biological parents: Often retain authority and decide on important matters
- Foster parents: Responsible for daily care and upbringing
- Foster care agency: Supports and guides foster parents
- Accredited institution: Supervises in OTS situations
- Municipality of Utrecht: Responsible for funding under the Youth Act
Financial compensation for foster parents
Foster parents in Utrecht receive a monthly contribution for the costs:
- A basic rate for upbringing and care
- Extra compensations for special care needs
- Child benefit is paid to foster parents
Rights of foster parents in Utrecht
- Support and guidance from a foster care organisation
- Access to relevant information about the child
- Veto 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 generally remain legally responsible, whereas in adoption, the legal bond with them is severed and adoptive parents receive full authority. Foster care is often temporary, adoption permanent.Is contact between parents and child possible?
In most cases, yes. A visitation arrangement is established, often with the aim of future return home. In long-term foster care, contact may however be limited.What if parents want their child back?
This is carefully assessed. In voluntary foster care, parents have the right to return placement, provided it is safe. In involuntary placement, the court decides. Foster parents can exercise their veto right after one year.Frequently asked questions about foster care in Utrecht
How can I become a foster parent in Utrecht?
You can register via a foster care organisation or the municipality of Utrecht. An extensive screening follows, including home visit and training, and a matching process. This takes on average 3-6 months. Guidance and compensation are available.
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 allowances for extra care. These amounts are tax-free.
Can foster parents refuse return placement?
After one year, foster parents have a veto right, with which they can prevent return placement if it is not in the child's best interest. In voluntary foster care, parents decide in principle, in involuntary placement the court.
What rights do biological parents have?
They often retain authority, have the right to information and co-determination on important matters such as education and health. A visitation arrangement is established, unless the court decides otherwise.
What happens when a foster child turns 18?
Formally, foster care ends at majority, but in many cases the child remains in contact with the foster family or receives extended support via the municipality of Utrecht.
Relevant authorities in Utrecht:
- District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55