News item | 25-09-2023 | 08:44
Despite the extensive purchasing power measures that the government announced on Budget Day, many households remain concerned about their financial situation. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment is once again using information to point out the available help to people with financial worries and to encourage them to take the step towards help. This time, special attention has been paid to parents and the available arrangements that can support them in matters relating to the child and household.
The number of children growing up in poverty is decreasing. However, approximately 220,000 children in the Netherlands still have to deal with this. In addition to increasing social security, the ministry wants to reduce the consequences of child poverty. There are many arrangements available that are not yet found by all parents.
Support from the municipality or social organizations can ensure that children continue to participate, as experienced by Wandana, a 32-year-old mother of four young children. She got into financial trouble due to an unfortunate set of circumstances. Wandana shares her story to encourage others in similar situations to seek help from the appropriate authorities. “Don’t be ashamed,” she emphasizes. ‘If you’re used to doing everything on your own, don’t be afraid to accept help and ask for help. Step over that threshold.’
Appropriate help via Geldfit
The campaign refers to Geldfit. Geldfit is the place where all available help comes together. You can on the website test how financially healthy you are, read useful tips and experience stories, or discover which organizations can help you. Such as Sam& for all children. Parents with limited financial resources can come here for school supplies, sports activities, music or swimming lessons, fun outings, or a birthday box. You can also call Geldfit’s helpline for free and anonymously on 0800-8115 for personal advice.
Campaign toolkit
The ‘You are not alone’ campaign from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment starts today. Other parties, such as municipalities, have been invited to join in. More information and images can be found at: campaigntoolkits.nl/je-staat-er-niet-alleen-voor.
An earlier information campaign aimed at aid in the spring, together with Geldfit, municipalities and companies, led to 1.3 million visitors to the website. Of these, more than half a million people took follow-up steps to get help and almost 16,000 people received advice by telephone.