paroolOct 8, 2026, 14:45

End to intake freeze at Levvel, youths with severe issues can once again be admitted in Amsterdam

Care organization Levvel has ended its intake freeze for Amsterdam youth following successful negotiations to secure more beds for those in need of severe residential care. While access has been restored, the municipality is demanding better coordination among providers and has initiated an independent financial audit of Levvel to ensure future stability.

The Amsterdam youth care organization Levvel has lifted its intake freeze, allowing children with severe domestic issues to be admitted for residential care within the city again. Since this summer, the facility had stopped accepting new local youth, forcing at least six children to be placed in regions as far away as Utrecht or Hilversum. Municipal alderman Esmah Lahlah announced the resolution following successful negotiations between Levvel and other care partners to secure necessary capacity. While the immediate crisis is averted, a structural solution remains under development, with the city threatening intervention if providers fail to coordinate the distribution of resources effectively. The city has agreed to guarantee up to 1 million euros in potential costs, while Levvel will contribute 500,000 euros. Given recent tensions regarding the unilateral imposition of the freeze, the city will conduct an external audit of Levvel’s financial management to ensure stability and transparency in future operations.

Lifestyle Health Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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