Cabinet apologizes to youth in closed youth care

The cabinet has issued an apology to young people who have been in closed youth care. This was done in response to shortcomings in this type of care. The youth care sector and municipalities have also expressed regret for the suffering inflicted on these young individuals. Closed youth care is considered the most intrusive form of care for youth, in which their freedom is restricted.

In closed youth care, young people are not allowed to leave the institution without permission. Additionally, they may be physically restrained by caregivers or placed in isolation rooms. These are some of the measures implemented in this type of care.

Minister Mirjam Sterk for Long-term Care has apologized for the abuses that have occurred in both closed youth care and in youth detention centers. During a press conference, she stated that it is unfortunate there has not always been a safe environment and quality care for these young people.

According to reports, a significant number of young people, estimated at 20,000, have faced severe shortcomings, such as solitary confinement and forced treatments. The cabinet emphasizes that attention must be given to these issues and that it is important to improve care for current and future youth.

In Ede, the apologies were received with mixed feelings by those involved. While some found it an important gesture, many others expressed disappointment over the experiences young people have endured. One critic described it as a 'shitshow', highlighting the complex emotions surrounding the issue.

The cabinet has indicated that they wish to carefully manage the transition to better care. This means paying attention to the stories of these young people and taking action to ensure that such situations do not occur in the future.