Amsterdam

Amsterdam Homelessness Policy

A National Action Plan on homelessness was adopted by the four major cities of the Netherlands for 2006-2009. The main objectives of the plan are the following:

  • 90% of 4000 homeless must be in care (3600). This means that four life domains must be met: housing, medical care, income, work.
  • 60% of those (2160) in stable care, which means for at least 3 months.
  • Reduction of evictions to 70% of the 2005 level.
  • Reduction of public nuisance by homeless people to 75% of the 2005 level.

Key words in the Amsterdam approach

  • Local government takes control.
  • Local government works under one direction and with one mission.
  • Personal approach: each one of the 3600 homeless people is known by the Municipal Health Institute (MHI).
  • The MHI checks the performance of the NGOs, namely the quality of services.
  • Control of admittance by MHI of homeless people to the facilities.
  • Emphasis on income and work.
  • Network of Housing Corporations and Social Work which intervene when people develop a rent debt of 2 months or more.
  • Joint commission of local government and health-insurance company. Joint purchase of additional services: housing, medical care, income support, clinical care, etc.
  • Special project to provide housing and services to ex-prisoners.

Results: Main objectives are reached

  • Reduction of roofless people (from 160 per night to 80 per night).
  • 2200 homeless in stable care.
  • Reduction of evictions to 70% (contrary to national trend).
  • Reduction of public nuisance to well below 75%.

Challenges

  • Approximately 400 homeless are not included. This requires a new approach.
  • Results may be flawed by the rising number of Eastern European migrants who end up on the streets.
  • Credit crisis is a threat but also an opportunity.
  • Possibly extra investments need for prevention of evictions.

Amsterdam

Facts

  • Country: Netherlands
  • Population: 775.000
  • Mayor: Eberhard van der Laan
  • Contact Person: Nienke Boesveldt
  • Key words: dakloos (roofless), thuisloos (homeless), zorg (care), welzijn (welfare), opvang (reception)
  • Website: www.amsterdam.nl