Academie #13

Let’s get out there! Proximity and trust

Not every resident knows that a helpdesk exists. And those who do know about it don’t always visit it. What happens when organisations go out into the neighbourhood themselves? That is the theme of the thirteenth Academy. We are once again learning from the best examples in the country.

Member of the House of Representatives Marjolein Moorman was the driving force behind the family schools when she was an alderwoman in Amsterdam. There are now forty of them. The focus there is not just on the child, but on the whole family: the school is a central hub in the neighbourhood for education, care, wellbeing and parenting support.

Monaïm Benrida isdirector of the Arnhem-East National Programme. There, as part of the ‘Immerloo Debt-Free’ experiment, the debts of forty households were written off in one go. Clearing debts brings peace of mind and breathing space, but the most important lesson is another: the difference is made by a coach who stands by people over the long term.

‘Reaching Out! Proximity and Trust’ is about reaching out to residents and building trust. The National Programme Heerlen-Noord is also taking this approach, with Ooievaarsmoeders, resident support workers, family coaches, energy coaches and many others.

We’ll be announcing more speakers and programme items shortly.

About the €3 ticket price

For the first time, we’re asking for a contribution. In previous editions, many reserved seats remained empty. A ticket secures your place and helps us know how many people to expect. All proceeds will go to the Heerlen-Noord Residents’ Coalition. Is the fee a barrier? Let us know, and we’ll sort it out.