Thinkers

It can happen to anyone...

... that you run into a situation or problem that’s hard to handle on your own. This could involve financial matters, parenting, Health applications, education, housing, or work. You’d prefer to figure it all out on your own, but you don’t have to do it alone!

It’s always nice to have someone who thinks things through with you and helps you get things back on track. This could be a family member or an acquaintance. But if that’s not possible or if you’d rather not, you can also seek the help of a professional advisor.

What is a "meedenker"?

The name says it all: a “meedenker” (independent client advocate) is someone who thinks along with you and helps you clarify your questions. This person works with you to find appropriate assistance and can accompany you to a meeting with an agency. A “meedenker” helps you ask the right questions, come up with solutions, and make decisions.

A “meedenker” is also known as an independent client advocate. We distinguish between a volunteer who acts as a “meedenker” and a professional “meedenker” (client advocate).

In the video, we explain what "co-thinkers" are and how you can bring them on board.

In what situations can a consultant help you?

Have you lost track of things?

Letters from the tax authorities and other official organizations, bills and payment reminders, appointments for Health, training, or job applications… It’s often overwhelming and hard to understand. And how are you supposed to pay for all of that?! A support counselor will help you regain control of the situation.

Are you dreading all the administrative tasks now that you're 18?

You just turned 18—what a celebration! But now you suddenly have to take care of a lot (more) things on your own. Youth services are transitioning to adult services. How does that affect your (health) insurance? Maybe you’ll have to find your own place to live now? The Kwikstart app can help you get started. If you can’t figure it out on your own, a support counselor can help you take the right steps.

Are you nervous about an interview with an organization?

Important conversations where a lot is at stake. For example, discussions about eligibility for Health, financial assistance, or contributions. With the help of a support person, you can prepare well for such a conversation. A support person can also accompany you or join the conversation online.

Would you like to participate in society (again)?

A person drinks coffee alone; in their mind, they see others doing it together
Do you find it hard to get out and socialize? Or to (re)take up a hobby? A support partner helps you explore your options—such as suitable contacts or activities—so that, with a little help or encouragement, you can do it on your own (again)!

Is the " Health " for someone else becoming too much for you?

A person who is crying because they have Health for both an elderly person in a wheelchair and a child
Caring for someone else can be (too) difficult at times. In those cases, you can call on a support partner. A support partner works with you to find solutions that take some of the burden off you, benefit your loved one, and are appropriate for your situation.

Could you use some help with problems at home?

A person holding a crying baby in a cluttered setting
Are you feeling stuck at home right now? Maybe with raising the kids, for example, or with your partner? If so, it’s a good idea to bring in a consultant. A consultant will work with you to find solutions that benefit the whole family.

Is your life a little different?

Young people with questions about relationships, housing, and financial matters
If you live with autism, an intellectual disability, an acquired brain injury, a physical disability, or (early-stage) dementia, you, your family, and those around you may have many questions. What kind of education, daytime activities, and work are right for you? What kind of Health is available to you, and can you also get help at home? Together with a support counselor, you can explore your options. A support counselor can also help you get things organized.

Bring in a partner who can help you think through the problem

Choosing Your Own Partner in Problem-Solving

Organizations in Kerkrade with trained or experienced volunteers who contribute ideas, or professionals who contribute ideas:

Drop by a community center or Geldwijzer store

You can stop by the following places to get help finding a partner:

You can also visit the GeldWijzerWinkel at , Einderstraat 22, 6461 EP Kerkrade, to get advice on making a choice.

Meedenkers Phone Number

For immediate assistance in choosing the right partner, please call 06-28 29 29 21 or email meedenkers@impulskerkrade.nl

This phone number is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Outside of these hours, you can leave a message with your name and phone number to request a callback.