gezinszorg

Gezinszorg is a form of in-home support aimed at families with children, provided within the Dutch-speaking welfare and social care system. It is designed to help parents manage daily responsibilities, support parenting, and promote the safety and development of children. The service is typically offered by municipal social services or by contracted care providers and can function as part of broader family or youth support programs.

The kinds of assistance covered by gezinszorg are practical and family-focused. They may include help with household tasks such as light cleaning and meals, supervision of children, accompaniment to appointments or activities, and guidance or coaching for parenting routines and child development. In addition, gezinszorg can involve information, referrals to other services, and coordination with healthcare, education, or child protection professionals when needed.

Access to gezinszorg usually follows a referral and assessment process. A care professional evaluates the family’s situation, needs, and risks, and, if appropriate, develops a tailored support plan with agreed goals, frequency, and duration. The service is generally time-limited and adjustable to changing circumstances, with reassessments to determine continuing support.

Funding and organization vary by jurisdiction but commonly involve municipal social services and public or contracted welfare organizations. Gezinszorg is part of efforts to prevent escalation to more intensive forms of care, support family functioning, and enable parents to provide a stable home environment for children. Related concepts include youth care, parental support, and other forms of in-home assistance.