Mon Apr 29, 06:51
Politics Politicians speak
‘The Netherlands takes care of each other’ is the name of the national network of residents’ initiatives in welfare, housing and care. The network now has many initiatives from society. Initiatives in which co-reliance, ownership and equality are central. Where people work from the bottom up, but often also with professional institutions and companies to make society stronger. Look it up on the internet. The great initiative of the residents of Reeuwijk-Dorp to start their own village shop from the residents and from there to make society stronger, does not stand alone. In many areas the local government supports such initiatives. It is therefore not surprising that Reeuwijk-Dorp turns to our municipal council for a helping hand.
There is increasing evidence from research that initiatives such as those in Reeuwijk-Dorp increase well-being and health and prevent high social costs. The PvdA therefore calls on the council to grant the requested 50,000 euros. We’re really going to earn that back. It is right that this is demonstrated as clearly as possible. This can easily be done by following developments methodically and over a long period of time in consultation with the initiators. Will there be more volunteer work? Are more people actively participating? Do people experience more health and happiness? Is loneliness decreasing and is there less demand on services such as Wmo, youth care and GP? Are fewer transport movements made, better for the environment and road safety? Is there an increase in sales of local products and does that strengthen our local economy? Compare the development of Reeuwijk-Dorp with a place in our municipality where there is no such initiative.
My prediction: We are in good hands.
Bert Oudenaarden, PvdA
