"Handle with Care" in Parkstad High Schools

Following its success in elementary schools, "Handle with Care" is now also being implemented in Parkstad's middle schools

Starting in the new school year, young people experiencing traumatic situations at home due to domestic violence or child abuse will receive support more quickly at school. Following a successful pilot program at three high schools, the “Handle with Care” initiative is being expanded to all 21 secondary schools throughout Parkstad. To this end, Heerlen, together with the other Parkstad municipalities, GGD Zuid-Limburg (Veilig Thuis), and the educational organizations, is signing a cooperation agreement.

Handle with Care has been in place for several years at elementary schools in South Limburg. The approach has proven effective there. Following a successful pilot program at three high schools in Parkstad, the program is now being expanded to all 21 secondary schools in the region.

Faster Support

Starting in the 2026–2027 school year, young people who experience domestic violence or child abuse at home will be able to count on support at school more quickly. All municipalities in Parkstad, the GGD Zuid-Limburg (Veilig Thuis), and secondary education organizations will collaborate on this through the “Handle with Care” initiative. They are signing a cooperation agreement to this end.

Handle with Care ensures that a school is notified if a student has experienced a traumatic situation at home involving the police. The school receives only the information necessary to provide the student with extra attention and support. No details are shared about what happened at home.

Feeling Safe at School

A child who is going through a difficult time at home often brings those worries to school. With “Handle with Care,” a mentor or coach knows that a student needs extra attention. Sometimes, a listening ear or a small gesture is enough to make a student feel that he or she isn’t alone. By working together, we ensure that young people get the support they need more quickly.

How does Handle with Care work?

If, when responding to a report of domestic violence or child abuse, the police determine that a young person between the ages of 12 and 17 is involved, a report is sent to Veilig Thuis. Veilig Thuis assesses whether the situation meets the criteria of the “Handle with Care” guidelines. If so, the Parkstad Learning and Transition Office receives a notification. Subsequently, only the school in question is informed that the student could use additional support. The school then determines how best to provide that support, for example, through a mentor or coach.

Working Together to Create a Safe Environment

Through regional collaboration, the Parkstad municipalities, schools, and Veilig Thuis ensure that young people are not left on their own after a traumatic event. A safe and supportive school environment can help reduce stress and lower the risk of long-term problems. This allows young people to receive the support they need more quickly so they can refocus on their personal development.