National and global issues also affect the local Wmo

There is a nationwide shortage of staff at home care organizations that provide household assistance. In addition, global challenges in production and transportation are causing problems for suppliers of items such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The municipality wishes to warn that these issues are affecting wait times for the municipal Wmo program. The municipality’s Wmo consultants are addressing clients’ questions as best they can, within the limits of their capabilities.

Alderman Paul de Bruijn: “It makes sense that Voorschoten is also feeling the effects of the issues mentioned earlier. We shouldn’t be under the illusion that we, as a village, can avoid this. Of course, it’s still frustrating that this is affecting precisely the people who need help the most. As a municipality, we’re doing everything we can to keep delays to a minimum. But we, too, are facing a shortage of staff in the areas of policy and implementation. We are looking for new employees.”Currently, there is a two-month wait betweenfiling a Wmo report and the first meeting with a counselor. After that, it takes several weeks to even several months before the service begins or is provided.

Shortage of domestic help and delivery issues with assistive devices

We’re living longer and staying in our own homes for longer periods of time. More people need help with household chores. For those who can’t arrange this on their own, the Wmo offers a solution. But there aren’t enough staff members. That’s why, even after the municipality has approved the request, it still takes several weeks before the assistance actually begins.

Another problem is that some assistive devices cannot currently be manufactured or repaired due to a shortage of parts. Certain raw materials are unavailable or in very short supply, and shipments from Asia and the Middle East have also been significantly delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic and the blockage of the Suez Canal. Although the worst effects of the coronavirus pandemic appear to be over, suppliers expect the problems in production and the flow of goods to persist for a few more months.

The regional taxi service is facing a combination of these problems. A growing number of people are using this service, which is essentially a hybrid between a bus and a taxi. Due to a shortage of drivers and accessible buses, they are unable to handle the volume of reservations.

What can you do?

If you are able to arrange for household assistance or a medical aid (which may be temporary or secondhand) on your own, that might be the best solution at this time. Do you have a medical aid at home, such as a wheelchair or a mobility scooter, that you no longer use? If so, please contact the Wmo Help Desk or the supplier of the medical aid. The assistive device will be picked up from your home so that someone else can use it.

Do you have any questions or complaints regarding the start or delivery of your assistance or service? If so, please contact your provider.