zorgplekken

Zorgplek is a Dutch term used to indicate a place where care is provided to someone who cannot live independently. It encompasses locations and arrangements in which trained professionals deliver ongoing care, supervision or treatment. Zorgplekken are found across sectors, including ouderenzorg (elder care) with residential facilities such as verpleeghuizen and woonzorgcentra, jeugdzorg (youth care) in residential or foster settings, gehandicaptenzorg (care for people with disabilities), and ggz (mental health care). A zorgplek can be a long-term residential placement, a short-stay or crisis facility, or a supported living arrangement where care is provided in group homes or in the client’s own home with on-site support.

Access to a zorgplek usually starts with an assessment of needs and a referral through the relevant care system, typically coordinated by a municipality or care provider. The aim is to match the individual with an appropriate setting based on health, safety and social requirements. Funding for zorgplekken is typically covered by public social care schemes, health insurance where applicable, and local or national budgets for youth and disability care; the exact funding route depends on the sector and the length of stay.

Availability of zorgplekken varies by region and sector, and waiting times or placement delays can occur when demand exceeds supply. Policy efforts focus on increasing capacity, improving intake processes and ensuring suitable matches between residents and facilities.