Out-of-home placement means that a child temporarily no longer stays in their own home, but is placed in a foster family, family home, or institution. This is a severe measure that is only applied if no other solution is possible.
When does out-of-home placement take place?
Out-of-home placement may be considered in the following situations:
- The safety of the child is not guaranteed at home
- A supervision order (OTS) provides insufficient protection
- The child requires intensive, specialist care
- The home situation is so unsafe that the child cannot remain there
Types of out-of-home placement
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Foster family (network) | Stay with known persons, such as family or friends |
| Foster family (unknown) | Stay with an unknown foster family |
| Family home | Small-scale care with professional guidance |
| Residential institution | Larger institution with therapeutic care |
| Secure youth care | Compulsory admission where the child may not leave |
Process of out-of-home placement
- A certified institution or the Child Care and Protection Board submits a request
- The juvenile court judge carefully assesses the application
- Parents and the child (from age 12) have the opportunity to give their opinion
- The judge grants a temporary authorization
- Extension may be requested if the situation requires it
Duration of the measure
Out-of-home placement is initially set for a maximum period of 12 months. After this period, an evaluation follows to determine if extension is necessary. The aim is always to return the child home as soon as possible or to find a stable, permanent solution.
Rights of parents in Zoetermeer
- Right to regular contact with the child (via a visitation arrangement)
- Right to information about the child's situation
- Right to input in drawing up the care plan
- Right to appeal the decision to the court
Secure youth care in the region
In secure youth care, a child may not leave the institution independently. This requires specific judicial permission. This measure is only used in cases of serious behavioral problems or when the child poses a risk to themselves or others.
Do I retain parental authority over my child during out-of-home placement?
Yes, in most cases parents retain parental authority. You remain involved in important decisions for your child, unless parental authority is terminated by the court.How often can I see my child during the placement?
This depends on the visitation arrangement that is drawn up. The frequency is determined based on what is in the best interest of the child. You have the right to contact, unless it is deemed harmful.Can I object to an out-of-home placement?
Yes, you can appeal to the court of appeal within three months of the decision. In addition, you can request the family guardian to conduct an earlier evaluation of the situation.Frequently asked questions about out-of-home placement in Zoetermeer
When can a child be placed out of home?
This happens if the home situation is unsafe, an OTS does not provide sufficient help, the child needs specialist care, or the circumstances at home are too risky. It is a last resort, where an institution or the Board submits a request to the juvenile court judge in The Hague.
How long does an out-of-home placement last?
The measure applies for a maximum of one year, after which a reassessment takes place. The goal is to work towards a return home or another sustainable solution.
Can I visit my child?
Yes, parents have the right to contact, provided it is not harmful to the child. A visitation arrangement determines how often and in what way this takes place.
What if I disagree with the decision?
You can file an appeal with the court of appeal within three months. You can also discuss with the family guardian whether an earlier return is possible. Legal assistance is recommended, for example via the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Do I lose my parental authority during out-of-home placement?
No, normally you retain parental authority and remain involved in important decisions about your child.