The declining number of new foster parents is a cause for concern, including in the Haaglanden region

The supply of available foster parents is not sufficient, and it has been declining for several years. At the same time, the demand for foster care remains high. As a result, the shortage is growing slowly but steadily, which is a cause for concern. The current unrest and uncertainty in society are intensifying due to various crises, such as the housing crisis, the energy crisis, and disproportionate inflation. These crises affect the supply of new foster parents, as they typically apply when they are in a stable personal situation. Pleegzorg Nederland wants to reverse this downward trend and is therefore using the hashtag #groenlicht during Foster Care Week (November 2–9) to draw extra attention to the importance of recruiting more foster parents.

Pleegzorg Nederland is concerned about the declining number of new foster parents: “Too many children are falling through the cracks. We want foster children to have the same opportunities in life as children who grow up with their own parents. Without a stable home, it’s hard to build self-confidence. If that foundation is missing, children are less able to thrive.” One bright spot, however, is that the number of children in need of foster care—after years of increase and a period of stabilization—does appear to be declining slightly.

Foster Parents Needed in the Hague Region

Throughout the Haaglanden region, there is a need for approximately 100 new foster parents. Ideally, the pool of foster parents should be as diverse as possible, because every child has different needs. For example, there is a great need for foster parents who can provide a safe place for a child during a crisis, for as long as necessary. In addition, we’re looking for foster parents who are willing to care for older children, as well as those who have room for multiple children so that siblings can stay together. It doesn’t matter if you have a large family or live alone—anyone can become a foster parent. There are various types of foster care; for example, there is a need for foster parents who can welcome a child 24/7, but also for people who want to be part-time foster parents, such as two weekends a month.

Children Bear the Brunt

Children are bearing the brunt of the long-standing shortage of foster parents. Because fewer foster parents are available, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the foster care system to make a suitable match between a child and a foster parent. Ideally, a match is made taking into account factors such as culture and (migration) background. This is becoming increasingly difficult because there are too few available foster parents. Children are also being moved from one placement to another more frequently because it takes longer to find a permanent home. Notably, the demand for part-time foster care (usually on weekends or during school breaks) is growing, while the demand for full-time foster care is declining somewhat. Part-time foster care, if implemented in a timely manner, can greatly assist in the effort to allow a child to grow up at home. It is precisely for this form of foster care that there are too few foster parents.

Want to learn more about becoming a foster parent?

Check outhttps://openjewereld.nu/groenlicht/ and for more information. Jeugdformaat is also hosting free information sessions on November 10 and December 12 at Fleminglaan 12 in Rijswijk. From 7:45 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Jeugdformaat will introduce you to the world of foster care. What is it, what does it involve, and how can you become a foster parent? You can ask any questions you have. Curious? You can register via https://www.wordpleegouder.nl/pagina/informatieavond-over-pleegzorg.

Spotlight on Foster Families

Municipalities in the Hague region and Jeugdformaat are also using this action week as an opportunity to give foster parents and foster children some extra recognition. They’ll receive a small token of appreciation, such as a fun activity for the whole family or a treat.