The Netherlands needs at least 7,750 social housing units each year for people with mental health issues. This includes those who have completed long-term treatment in institutions, as well as those authorities are releasing from prison. The Dutch mental health care sector commissioned these estimates.
People with mental health problems face long waiting times for rental homes. This is similar to other groups, such as general housing seekers and asylum seekers, who are allowed to stay in the country. Authorities are meant to give many of them priority, but delays still occur. A previous survey found that 64 per cent of people in mental healthcare institutions wait longer than a year to find independent housing.
The sector has outlined the main groups affected by the housing shortage, based on rough estimates. It needs around 4,000 rental homes for individuals in sheltered housing. These individuals typically move out after two years. The sector needs a further 2,000 homes each year for people with mental health issues leaving detention. Mental healthcare institutions also require 1,750 homes annually for those they admit.
There is also demand for housing for young people and tens of thousands of homeless individuals living in shelters. Many of them also require rental homes, although exact numbers remain unknown.
The shortage is most severe for individuals in sheltered housing and those transitioning from detention. In 2023, only 1,320 people secured a rental home within a year after staying in sheltered housing.
The Dutch mental health care sector warns that a lack of housing can halt recovery. Chair Ruth Peetoom said it becomes difficult for people to participate in normal life, even when they are ready to leave the institution. She is calling for better agreements with municipalities and housing corporations. These efforts are also part of a new law that is due to take effect on 1 July.
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