Recovery after the childcare benefits scandal requires more than financial compensation: young people seek recognition and future prospects
Commissioned by the Ministry of Finance, Panteia, in collaboration with Behavior Change Group, Rebel and Labyrinth, conducted research into the support young people need within the ‘Kindregeling’ (Child Scheme). The report provides valuable insights into how recovery for these young people can be shaped in a way that allows them to focus on their future again. This research was carried out in response to the report ‘Erfenis van Onrecht’ (‘Legacy of Injustice’).
Young people seek recognition, clarity, and sustainable support
The Toeslagenaffaire (childcare benefits scandal) deeply affected not only parents but also their children. Young people experience mental pressure, barriers in education and employment, and uncertainty about their future. Many still feel insufficiently recognised as independent victims. Following the ‘Erfenis van Onrecht’ report, the outgoing cabinet recently expressed the intention to offer an explicit apology. This marks a step toward real recognition for children and young people. They emphasise that genuine recognition goes beyond a one-off letter — it requires a personal approach, clear attribution of responsibility, and taking their stories seriously.
In addition, broad support often remains difficult for young people to access. They are expected to take the initiative themselves to apply for broad support and are not always aware of their entitlements. A personal, dedicated adviser can help, as can continuity in the provision of care. Young people call for accessible, long-term support that brings together mental health care, financial aid, educational assistance and guidance for the future.
Key findings
The report shows that:
- Recognition is a vital first step in the recovery process. Young people want to be treated as independent victims, not merely as the ‘children of victims’. A personal approach is essential in this.
- Access to support often depends on the municipality in which a young person lives and the case manager they happen to encounter. This leads to inequality in the provision of broad support for young people.
- Debts — including student debt — present a structural barrier for many. Most experts advocate for the cancellation of DUO (student finance) debts that resulted from the Toeslagenaffaire (as many borrowed money to support their parents).
- A dedicated case manager is crucial for effective support. Young people frequently experience fragmented care, having to repeat their story multiple times, and changing contact persons.
- Communication about entitlements and schemes is often unclear. Young people request a single, clear source of information, accessible language, and transparent explanations about what to expect.
Further research and broader agenda
This study marks the beginning of a series of in-depth studies to evaluate the recovery process following the Toeslagenaffaire. In the years ahead, Panteia and its partners will continue this work.
Read the full report (in Dutch): ‘Behoeften van jongeren in de kindregeling’.
