Rotterdam opens an info centre for divorcing families and their children

Considering the harm that such an event can inflict on children, the Dutch municipality engages to take care of their mental well-being with a new service

The Municipality of Rotterdam has reported on the recent launch of an information desk for relationships, parents and divorce. Young people and their parents can go there to seek information and advice about relationships, parenting and separations.

Realised together with the Centre for Youth and Family of the Greater Rotterdam area, the centre’s objective is to mitigate the harm inflicted through a divorce and to prevent further conflicts that surround it.

A comprehensive care package for the psychological well-being of Rotterdam residents

Every year, thousands of families in Rotterdam split off. Needless to say that this rarely goes as a smooth and carefree process. On the contrary, if the divorce does not end up with a peaceful agreement and mutual understanding, it can seriously hurt both the parents and their children.

That is why back in June, the Dutch city opened a special centre to facilitate the process. The centre, however, will only be officially inaugurated on Friday, 9 September.

In the facility, one can meet experienced consultants, social counsellors and pedagogues who provide free advice and refer couples to the right help and support when needed. This includes all kinds of questions of a practical or legal nature, about divorce mediation or about parenthood after divorce.

Also, one can get advice on how to deal with frustration, anger, shame or sadness and get help on how to make a future agreement with their former partner in life. Parents can also receive guidance on how to draw up a parenting plan.

The centre is located at the Central Library of Rotterdam and can be accessed on Wednesdays and Fridays and also over the phone. It is free to attend but requires a preliminary reservation.