Youth care organization Xperanza is working to open a location in Peize. There should be a place on the Groningerweg for young people who have previously followed a course in Spain.
These are young people who suffer from behavioral problems for various reasons. “Certainly not about anti-social young people,” emphasizes Jolanda Kiesbrink on behalf of the organization. “So no young people with an addiction or criminality, but with problems. That can be very broad.”
Xperanza was founded in 2013 by healthcare psychologist Evelien von Eije and her husband Sander Knol. The organization is located in Groningen, but young people are treated in Spain. “These are young people who are left out in the Netherlands and for whom it is necessary to take them out of their trusted network, for whatever reason,” says Kiesbrink. “In Spain they stay for a maximum of eight months, with the family ideally also coming over for a week.”
There they are treated by several psychologists, behavioral scientists, pedagogical staff and sports coaches. The aim of the treatment is to enable young people to return to a family situation. In some cases, aftercare is required, which is why the company has been looking at a location in the Netherlands for years.
The Dutch-Spanish organization has now found a place in Peize. Although the permits have not yet been finalized, the municipality of Noordenveld is in principle cooperating with the plans. “We want to be closely involved in the environment in Peize,” says Kiesbrink. “It should not become a closed community.”
How many young people are placed in Peize depends on the group. “It has to fit together well, so you look at the group dynamics. For example, there can be six, but also twelve. In any case, we are not going for large groups. We want to be able to provide good, personal care.”
The length of the stay on the Groningerweg will also differ. “Some young people will only have to stay a few months before returning to their family. For others this will be more difficult and may not be possible at all. We have to prepare them to stand on their own two feet. Then a longer stay will be necessary. are.”
This also includes good guidance, says Xperanza. “There will be guidance 24 hours a day,” says Kiesbrink. “The young people all have a daily schedule. They are also required to attend school. We want to discuss our plans with the surrounding area. We want to make it clear that we want to become part of the village.”
If all goes well, the healthcare organization can establish itself in Peize in the second half of 2024.
Tags: Youth care organization establish Peize hopes part village
