Social Support Act (Wmo): Who Qualifies and What You Get

The Social Support Act (Wmo) is a framework designed to provide support to individuals so they can continue to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

👤Who it's for

This scheme is specifically for people who find it difficult to manage daily life alone and require extra assistance to maintain their independence while living at home. If you need help with tasks around the house or adjustments to your physical environment to stay in your own residence, you may qualify for this support.

🎁What you get

The support provided through this act covers several different types of practical assistance. This includes home help (referred to locally as Huishoudelijke hulp) to assist with household chores, mobility aids to help you move more easily, and home modifications to ensure your living space is safe and accessible for your specific needs.

💰What it costs you

There is no immediate monetary fee to start the process, but you will need to invest time to complete an assessment interview. During this meeting, a municipal caseworker will evaluate your situation to determine exactly what level of support is necessary for your circumstances.

⚠️The catch to know

It is important to understand that receiving these services may not be entirely free of charge. There is a personal contribution, known as an 'eigen bijdrage', which is a cost you may be required to pay. The amount of this contribution is not fixed; instead, it is calculated based on your specific income.

📝How to apply

1. Reach out to your local municipality (Gemeente) to express your need for support.
2. Participate in an assessment interview with a municipal caseworker to discuss your daily challenges.
3. Complete the evaluation process where your specific needs for home help or mobility aids are measured.
4. Review the assessment results to see which specific services and modifications are approved for your home.