Domestic violence hotline seeks 70 million euros in extra annual funding to tackle waiting lists and staff shortages
Veilig Thuis, an organization for domestic violence reporting, is calling for an extra 70 million euros annually to manage severe staffing shortages and mounting waiting lists. The additional funding is intended to help the organization stabilize current services while preparing for a long-term national restructuring of child and family protection services.
The 25 regional organizations operating under Veilig Thuis are requesting an additional 70 million euros annually to address critical staffing shortages and lengthy waiting lists. Last year alone, these organizations handled over 130,000 reports regarding domestic violence and child abuse. Officials warn that the current capacity problems are hindering essential collaboration with partners such as the police and the Public Prosecution Service.
The requested funding aims to bolster personnel numbers and support a broader organizational transformation. Veilig Thuis plans to restructure its operations over the next three years to align with a government cabinet strategy, which intends to integrate these services into regional safety teams. However, the organization emphasizes that this transition is currently impossible because staff are entirely occupied with urgent, day-to-day casework. The Dutch House of Representatives is scheduled to discuss the Ministry of Health's budget this Wednesday, where these financial demands will likely be addressed.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
