Certainty as a starting point

Every resident of Heerlen deserves income security. A roof over their head, Health , and the opportunity to participate in society. A stable income is necessary for this.

That is the essence of the new policy plan "Security as a Starting Point," which was adopted by the city council on February 25, 2026. 

Security of livelihood as a foundation

Income security allows residents to build a future for themselves. However, this security is increasingly under pressure. In Heerlen, one in ten households lives on Social assistance benefit. The percentage of residents with problematic debts is well above the national average. Child poverty is twice as common as in other comparable cities. Behind these figures, we hear heartbreaking stories of parents who cannot afford birthday presents and have to send their children to school without breakfast. 

Alderman on poverty policy:
“InHeerlen, we do everything we can to help and support people with financial worries. I believe that, as a municipality, we need to stand even closer alongside our residents. We see the problems that arise from poverty, but it is of the utmost importance that we work together with our partners to combat poverty. 

Income security: ensuring that everyone has enough money to live on

We want all residents of Heerlen to have enough money to live on. This goes beyond just debt assistance and benefits. Our plan has three key points:

  • Close to our residents
    We provide everyone with information that is easy to understand. The information is easy to find.
  • Strong together for income security
    We put you, the individual, first. We work together to find effective solutions.
  • Prevention and persistence
    We want to identify problems early on. This allows us to prevent poverty rather than just solving it.

What is different?

We want to prevent poverty, not just alleviate it. We are reducing regulations and focusing on what you need. The human aspect comes first.

Collaborate

We did not develop this plan alone. Volunteers, experienced individuals, organizations, and municipal employees contributed their ideas. They shared their ideas during various meetings.

Everyone liked this way of working together. This is how we create policies that really work for people.

With this plan, Heerlen will become a place where everyone has enough money to live on. That should be normal, not exceptional.