Belgian boarding schools face rising demand to house children amid youth care shortage

Boarding school directors in Belgium are facing a surge in requests to accommodate children who have nowhere else to go, as the regular youth care system struggles to cope with demand. Institutions in Mechelen, Turnhout, and Hoogstraten are increasingly being approached by authorities seeking placements for vulnerable young people.

These directors report mounting pressure from both welfare organizations and youth courts, which are actively trying to find suitable environments for children in need. The situation underscores a significant gap in Belgium's youth care infrastructure, leaving schools like these as a last resort for many families and state agencies.

However, the boarding schools themselves are finding it challenging to meet every request. "We can't always help," stated one director, reflecting the strain on their resources and capacity. This indicates that the problem extends beyond a simple lack of space, potentially involving funding, staffing, or specialized care limitations within the boarding school system itself.

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The pressure from the welfare sector and the youth courts is increasing. We cannot always help.