Browse Ageing Policies

The primary goal of the Open Hiring programme is to create an inclusive labour market without discrimination. It aims to systemically change hiring practices to allow for more equitable job opportunities. The main stakeholders involved are Start Foundation, employers participating in the Open Hiring programme, and job seekers. The programme also involves collaboration with partners like UWV and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. The policy targets the national labour market in the Netherlands, focusing on employers and job seekers who are part of the Open Hiring programme. It covers various sectors affected by labour market shortages and aims to engage employers nationwide. Strategies include the Open Hiring model, where job seekers are hired without traditional interviews, and the use of life coaches. The policy promotes organic growth and adherence to Open Hiring principles among employers. Employers officially joining the programme as partners agree to follow the set rules. In 2021, 61 employers started Open Hiring, and about 180 job seekers were employed through the programme. The programme started in 2021.

The Tel mee met Taal programme is a comprehensive national action plan initiated by the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Its primary objectives are: - To prevent and reduce low literacy among adults. - To ensure that children do not fall behind in their educational journey. - To improve basic skills in language, numeracy, and digital literacy, supplementing regular education Programme. The programme is supported by various Dutch ministries, including the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (OCW). Key stakeholders include schools, employers, libraries, and organizations in both the European and Caribbean Netherlands. DUS-i (Dutch subsidy implementation agency) is responsible for the implementation of the scheme. The programme covers the entire Netherlands. It targets adults with low literacy or digital literacy skills and parents who can influence the educational environment at home. The scope includes language, calculus, and digital skills improvement. Two main subsidy categories are available: one for employers to train low-literate employees and another for projects supporting low-literate parents. Organizations must apply together with at least two other parties, such as local libraries, youth healthcare institutions, educational institutions, or pre-school facilities. The maximum subsidy amount per application is €125,000. The programme is currently in its third iteration, running from 2021 to 2024.

The “Council of Older Persons” is an advisory body in the Kingdom of the Netherlands established in 2018 to provide advice to the Minister of Health, Welfare, and Sport on issues related to older persons. It is implemented at the national level, aiming to involve older persons in policymaking by offering advice and drawing attention to new policy themes. The council consists of members of older persons from various backgrounds, ensuring diverse perspectives. The main activities include advising the Minister of Health, Welfare, and Sport on issues like healthcare, housing, and social inclusion, promoting the interests of older persons by initiating discussions, providing recommendations, and influencing policy development to improve the quality of life for older persons. The council also works to improve the representation and positive image of older persons in society. In 2020, they, along with the Ministry, launched a campaign called "The Value of Ageing" to raise awareness of the contributions of older adults to society.