Changes in the disciplinary procedure for youth care
As of November 1, the way in which complaints can be made about youth care workers, the so-called disciplinary process, will change. The Youth Quality Register Foundation (SKJ) is responsible for its implementation. From now on, most complaints will no longer be handled by the supervisory board, but through consultation. The intention is that the process changes from ‘discipline’ to ‘learning’. The SKJ calls this the ‘learning route’.
The SKJ writes: “One of the goals of disciplinary law has always been that the youth professional should learn from a complaint submitted. The current disciplinary process is experienced as heavy by complainants and youth professionals.” According to the SKJ, the fear of disciplinary law stood in the way of learning after a complaint was filed.
The Consultation Committee (CvC) will discuss the complaint with the parties. “This new approach is faster, the contact with parties is more direct and there is more attention for learning and reflection”, the SKJ believes. The CvC cannot impose a ‘measure’, such as a reprimand or prohibiting someone from continuing to practice their profession. Jacky Stuifmeel, director of the SKJ: “The CvC can apply customization and therefore also request follow-up, but that depends on the case.”