More specialized care needed for young asylum seekers with mental health problems
The Netherlands faces a critical shortage of specialized, secure facilities for minor refugees with severe mental health problems, according to Nidos, the organization responsible for guardianship and care of young asylum seekers. The group is calling for dedicated funding and space to treat the approximately 20 most at-risk minors nationwide.
Nidos highlighted that these youths pose a danger to themselves or others. "If it is possible to open two groups in the country, each accommodating ten young people with language- and culture-sensitive specialized youth care, then twenty young people can receive the care they need," a spokesperson said.
According to EenVandaag, the organization said finding suitable placements for unaccompanied minor refugees with complex psychological or behavioral issues is extremely difficult. As a result, appropriate care is often delayed or unavailable. From 2022, an average of 400 to 500 minors left their assigned accommodations each year, sometimes vanishing completely. Suicide among this group is reportedly also common.
Nidos explained that youths with serious behavioral problems often have histories of school absenteeism, substance use, and frequent moves between foster families. Some have encountered police or required short-term crisis placements following incidents. Without specialized facilities, they are typically returned to standard foster homes where adequate psychological support is lacking.
"Specialized youth care is usually scarce. There is a waiting list, even for Dutch youths. Moreover, the available options do not always match what the young person needs," the spokesperson added.
Nidos holds the legal responsibility to guide minor refugees—whether with or without asylum status—until they turn 18. This includes arranging care and placements. If a young person requires treatment, Nidos coordinates with a care organization via the municipality where the minor is registered.
The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) houses minors aged 15 and older who arrive without asylum status. Recent shortages of permanent facilities, according to Nidos, have resulted in insufficient child-friendly accommodations.
