Number of people on social assistance rises again, Statistics Netherlands reports

The total number of recipients of general social assistance rose once more in the third quarter, with the growth especially pronounced among young beneficiaries, according to Statistics Netherlands.

By the end of September, 408,000 individuals were receiving social assistance, a benefit for those lacking enough income or assets to support themselves. This marks a 1.2 percent rise from the same period last year.

The number of young adults aged 18 to 27 receiving social assistance increased by 5.5 percent. A smaller rise was observed among 27- to 45-year-olds, while the number of recipients aged 45 and older stayed the same, according to Statistics Netherlands.

The number of people on social assistance has been rising since the latter half of 2023, after a previous period of decline. Still, Statistics Netherlands notes that the current figures remain below the peak seen in early 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic triggered major economic difficulties, with prolonged closures of cafés and shops and the cancellation of events.

Statistics Netherlands stated in May that the rise in young recipients is due to the labor market conditions. Because young workers are more likely to have temporary or short-term contracts, they are quicker to lose their jobs and often do not qualify for unemployment benefits. This makes them more likely to end up in social assistance sooner.