Familiesraad

Familiesraad is a term used in Dutch-language contexts to describe a structured process or body designed to support families in arranging and reconciling matters affecting children. It can be a formal entity created by a court or municipality, or an informal arrangement initiated by the family with professional facilitation.

The core aim of a familiesraad is to improve communication, reduce conflict, and develop a joint plan for parenting, custody, visitation, education, and health decisions. It places the child's best interests at the center and seeks to establish clear arrangements that all parties can commit to over time.

Participants typically include the parents or guardians, the child (as appropriate), possibly other relatives, and professionals such as a social worker, mediator, or psychologist. The process usually involves a preparatory phase, one or more facilitated meetings, the drafting of an agreement or Familienplan, and follow-up sessions to review progress. Participation is usually voluntary, though in some jurisdictions it may be ordered by a court as part of child welfare or family law proceedings.

The concept exists in Dutch-speaking regions such as the Netherlands and Flanders, but there is no single nationwide model. The exact authority, procedures, and terminology vary by country, region, and municipality. In some settings a familiesraad complements formal legal processes by enabling cooperative decision-making; in others it functions as an informal, family-led mechanism supported by professionals.

Related concepts include family mediation, parenting plans, child welfare, and family law.