The number of confirmed cases of child abuse in Brabant is increasing, according to figures from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Behind every report there is a child who is not safe. Especially during the Week Against Child Abuse, which is this week, the call not to look away is louder than ever.
Figures from Statistics Netherlands show that the number of confirmed cases of child abuse in Brabant continues to rise. From 295 in 2023 it went to 315 in 2024. This year there is another increase: 210 cases were registered in the first half of 2025, compared to 165 in the same period last year.
According to Tilburg healthcare councilor Peter Kok, this may have several reasons: “The increase may indicate greater awareness and willingness to report, but also an increase in stress factors, such as financial problems.”
He explains that several factors may play a role in this increase. For example, financial pressure and housing problems make life harder for families and help is often sought too late due to shame or fear.
At the same time, better recognition by professionals, awareness campaigns and observant bystanders ensure that reports are made more often. That is precisely why, according to Kok, it is important that the problems are recognized more quickly. “By offering a visible, accessible place, Filomena wants to ensure that signals are picked up earlier, so that violence does not escalate.”
Since October 1, Filoma Hart van Brabant has been the drop-in center for people who experience child abuse, domestic violence and sexual violence at home. “Our starting point is: violence has no place anywhere,” says healthcare councilor Peter Kok. He emphasizes how important that message remains. “The stories of reporters and bystanders continually remind us that we are never finished and that this requires our continued attention.”
Without an appointment
The idea for such a drop-in center came from Rotterdam and is now expanding across the country. Tilburg was given a location because research showed that many victims from the municipality are unable to find regular help. People can visit Filomena without an appointment and talk to care providers and experienced experts. This can be done anonymously.
Everything is arranged under one roof, including police, healthcare and Safe at Home. Kok explains how the first contact goes: “You receive a warm welcome, you listen carefully, attention is paid to your safety and then we look together at what help is needed.”
‘Listen without judgement’
The same principle applies to everyone who walks in. “We listen without judgement, ensure that someone feels safe and look together at what next steps are necessary. If necessary, we immediately contact our partners. It is important that we always match the pace of the person who comes in,” says Kok.
Filomena works closely with, among others, Veilig Thuis, the Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, the police and the Sexual Violence Center. This collaboration ensures that people receive the right help immediately. “We are a combination of forces. This way we can act quickly and ensure that victims do not fall through the cracks.”