New Dutch
About 5% of the residents in Drenthe have a non-Western migration background. These new Dutch people often stay in their own bubble and network. The ‘Bartjes Breaking Bubbels’ project changes this by offering various training courses and a large number of activities. This project has an innovative approach and is used in addition to the regular integration processes. Together they work on a social network, language, knowledge of the environment. This allows new skills to be learned. Marja: “With the project we want to increase the self-reliance of this group of residents, but also ensure that they can make an active contribution to Drenthe society. By encouraging individuals to discover their own strengths and contribute to society, self-reliance and empowerment will increase.”
To collaborate
Collaboration is extremely important in this project. Marja: “Working with people is fun, but working with people from different backgrounds is so much more fun. It is educational and challenging. Flight Forward works together with Assen Library, De Nieuwe Kolk and the municipalities of Noordenveld, Aa & Hunze and Assen. In Assen, Vlucht Voorkomst also works closely with Werkplein Drentsche AA. This party refers residents to participate in training and coaching.”
Take steps step by step
Everyone who reports to Vlucht Voorvoord will be paired with a buddy with a Dutch background. Then the training starts. Marja: “The buddies help the participants with the integration in the Netherlands, while the buddies get acquainted with other languages and cultures. This ensures mutual reintegration. We want as many people as possible in Drenthe to participate fully. The climate around us is somewhat polarized, but that strengthens us to work hard for this. ”
Yvonne Turenhout: “This project not only focuses on individual development, but also on strengthening solidarity in Drenthe. By working together towards a more inclusive society, we can build a future in which everyone has equal opportunities and can develop to their full potential, regardless of background or origin.”
The ‘Bartjes Breaking Bubbels’ project comes at a crucial time, given the new Integration Act 2021 that has been in force since January 1, 2022. This law applies to everyone in the Netherlands who is subject to an integration obligation. The aim of this law is to allow those subject to integration to quickly integrate into Dutch society, for example by finding work. Real integration can only take place if people really feel connected to society.
