The Kitchen Table Conversation with the Municipality of Den Haag
The kitchen table conversation is an accessible home visit by the Municipality of Den Haag to map out your personal circumstances and care needs. This is routine for support applications under the Wmo 2015, Participation Act or Youth Act. At the kitchen table, you discuss your daily reality, allowing the municipality to issue a tailored decision suited to life in Den Haag.
What does a kitchen table conversation in Den Haag involve?
No formal interrogation, but an open dialogue on equal footing. A consultant from the Municipality of Den Haag visits your home to discuss your daily life in the city. What challenges do you face in neighborhoods like Schilderswijk or Segbroek? What can you handle yourself, and what social network do you have? This is essential for applications such as household assistance, guidance, mobility aids or social assistance benefits.
In Den Haag, with its diverse population, this conversation bridges the gap between citizen and government. Instead of a distant trip to city hall, the consultant comes to your home environment. You can bring in free support via the Juridisch Loket Den Haag or an independent client supporter.
Legal basis in Den Haag
The kitchen table conversation is enshrined in social laws applied by the Municipality of Den Haag:
- Wmo 2015: Article 2.6(1) requires a needs assessment 'preferably at the kitchen table', followed by a municipal plan (art. 2.7).
- Participation Act: Article 17 covers the participation assessment, often conducted at home in Den Haag.
- Youth Act: Article 2.4 requires a home investigation into upbringing and development.
- Long-Term Care Act (Wlz): The CIZ conducts similar intakes (art. 2.1.3).
These rules mandate a client-centered approach. In Den Haag, you can request an alternative if a home visit is not feasible, such as due to health issues. Refusal may complicate your application at the District Court of Den Haag.
Real-life examples from Den Haag
Take Mrs. Jansen (65) from the Transvaal neighborhood, applying for Wmo support due to mobility issues. At the table, she shares her loneliness, cleaning struggles and infrequent family visits. The consultant notes the situation and approves 4 hours of weekly assistance.
Mr. De Vries (45) from the Haagse Binckhorst seeks social assistance. The conversation reveals addiction and debt; he receives a benefit plus referrals to Den Haag debt relief and reintegration services.
For Youth Act therapy applications, the consultant speaks with the family about school and home life in a Den Haag apartment block.
Rights and obligations in Den Haag
Rights:
- Bring a trusted person or client supporter via the Juridisch Loket Den Haag or Social Team (free).
- Opt for a city hall appointment or video call.
- Access to the report (GDPR right).
- Objection at the District Court of Den Haag (art. 7:1 Awb).
Obligations:
- Provide complete, honest information; inaccuracies lead to recovery (art. 70 Participation Act).
- Cooperate with solutions.
Comparison: home vs. city hall in Den Haag
| Aspect | Kitchen Table Conversation | City Hall Appointment |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Your Den Haag home | City Hall Den Haag |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed, homely | Business-like, formal |
| Insight | Complete (visible at home) | Only your account |
| Duration | 45-90 min | 30-60 min |
| Costs | Free | Free |
Preparation for your conversation in Den Haag
Here's how to prepare effectively:
- List your problems, needs and own efforts, including Den Haag context.
- Gather documents: bills, doctor's letters, income proofs.
- Call the Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free assistance.
- Practice discussing sensitive topics like finances or addiction.
After the kitchen table conversation
The consultant reports back; expect a decision within 6 weeks (Wmo) or 8 weeks (Participation Act). You'll receive written notification. Disagree? File an objection within 6 weeks. See also objection at District Court of Den Haag or Wmo in Den Haag.
Frequently asked questions about Den Haag
Can I refuse the conversation?
Yes, propose a video call or city hall appointment. The Municipality of Den Haag must accommodate, but refusal harms your chances (art. 4:13 Awb).
Can a lawyer attend?
Preference for free client support via Juridisch Loket Den Haag. A lawyer is possible but often unnecessary.
Disagree with the report?
Request access and corrections. Later objection (Awb). Contact Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
How long does it take?
Average 1 hour, depending on your situation.