Youth care encompasses various forms of support for children and their families. Since the introduction of the Youth Act in 2015, responsibility for youth assistance lies with the municipalities, including Leiden.
What assistance falls under youth assistance?
- Support with parenting and family problems
- Psychological care for young people (youth mental health care)
- Guidance for behavioural challenges
- Support for intellectual disabilities
- Foster care and residential care
- Child protection and guidance for youth criminality
How do I access youth assistance in Leiden?
| Contact point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Leiden/neighbourhood team | First contact for help requests |
| GP | Refers to specialised care |
| School | Care coordinator provides support |
| Safe at Home | For reports of unsafe situations |
| Youth court (District Court of The Hague, Leiden location) | For compulsory assistance such as supervision order or out-of-home placement |
Voluntary and compulsory assistance
Most youth assistance is offered on a voluntary basis. In serious cases, the court may impose compulsory assistance via a supervision order (OTS) or out-of-home placement.
Role of certified institutions
Certified institutions (GIs) 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 Leiden
Youth assistance arranged via the Municipality of Leiden is free of charge for parents. No own contribution is required, as the municipality covers the costs.
Submitting complaints about youth care
If dissatisfied with youth care in Leiden, you can contact:
- The complaints committee of the relevant organisation
- The AKJ (Advice and Complaints Office for Youth Care)
- The ombudsman of the Municipality of Leiden
- The Health and Youth Care Inspectorate
Can I choose my own care provider in Leiden?
You may indicate a preference, but the Municipality of Leiden determines which assistance is provided. For specialised care via the GP, you have more say. For compulsory assistance, the choice is limited.What is the duration of youth assistance?
The length of the assistance depends on the situation. 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, the court may impose compulsory measures via a child protection measure.Frequently asked questions about youth assistance in Leiden
How do I apply for youth assistance for my child in Leiden?
Contact the neighbourhood team or youth consultant of the Municipality of Leiden. They will assess your situation and refer you to appropriate assistance. Alternatively, you can submit a request via your GP, school or Safe at Home. The municipality ultimately decides on the granting of assistance.
What distinguishes voluntary from compulsory youth assistance?
With voluntary assistance, parents and/or the child consent to the support, such as family guidance. Compulsory assistance is imposed by the youth court in cases of serious risks to the child, for example via an OTS or out-of-home placement, with less input for the family.
Are there costs associated with youth assistance in Leiden?
No, youth assistance via the Municipality of Leiden is free. The municipality funds the assistance and does not charge an own contribution. For specific extras such as respite care, costs may apply; inquire about this with your contact person.
What if I disagree with a decision on youth assistance?
You can file an objection with the Municipality of Leiden within six weeks via an objection letter. In addition, you can submit a complaint to the institution's complaints committee, the AKJ or the ombudsman. For compulsory assistance, appeal to the youth court is possible.
How quickly can youth assistance in Leiden start?
The waiting time varies depending on the type of assistance and urgency. Light support can start within weeks, while specialised care such as youth mental health care may take months. In cases of acute safety issues, intervention is faster. Ask the Municipality of Leiden about current waiting times.
Can my child request assistance themselves?
Yes, young people from 12 years old may independently request youth assistance in Leiden, even without parental consent. For younger children, parental consent is required.
Contact and legal support in Leiden
For legal questions about youth care, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden (Stationsweg 46). For court cases on compulsory assistance, reference is often made to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.