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Dutch Welfare Challenges: Employment and Trust

The SCP highlights challenges in integrating welfare recipients into paid employment, emphasizing the need for trust-building and support for those facing significant barriers.

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Dutch

Netherlands

Labour MarketNetherlandsGovernmentPolicySocial IssuesEmploymentWelfare

Sociaal En Cultureel Planbureau (Scp)Tweede Kamer

Karen Van Oudenhoven

What are the main goals of the proposed changes to the Participation Act?: The proposed changes to the Participation Act aim to restore trust between the government and welfare recipients, focusing on less strenuous work and providing support for those who cannot work.
What does the SCP suggest the government needs to change to improve the situation?: The SCP's research highlights the need for a shift in perspective from the government, emphasizing mutual trust and understanding to better assist those in need.
What recommendations does the SCP make for those unable to find paid work or participate in other ways?: The SCP recommends supporting the two groups who cannot work or participate in paid employment, focusing on improving their quality of life, believing that individual well-being benefits society.
What is a key factor contributing to the difficulties in helping welfare recipients, as identified by the SCP's research?: Welfare recipients sometimes feel treated as potential fraudsters, leading them to avoid discussing their problems with authorities. This distrust hinders their ability to access support.
What percentage of welfare recipients in the Netherlands cannot realistically find paid employment, according to the SCP?: According to the SCP, about a third of welfare recipients cannot realistically obtain paid employment due to significant personal challenges.

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