Victim Support Netherlands will assist victims of the childcare allowance affair. Those who are disadvantaged by the actions of the tax authorities can be just as traumatized as victims of an accident or crime, according to the organization.
Because the tax authorities cannot help the victims with their practical or psychosocial problems, State Secretary Alexandra van Huffelen (Allowances) has asked Victim Support to take on this task.
The victims are supported by employees who are trained in emotional support and the reduction of stress reactions. Victim support can also help with claiming compensation and assist the injured parents in criminal proceedings.
“If you are unfairly accused of fraud, receive injunctions worth tens of thousands of euros, lose your house and take years to settle, it will leave its mark”, said Rosa Jansen of Slachtofferhulp Nederland. “Victims have to deal with long-lasting stress and tension in the family. They are ashamed of their environment and have lost confidence.”
Politicians will be questioned on Monday
In the past week (former) top civil servants and experts were called upon to be heard under oath about the benefits affair. On Monday, the interrogation committee will continue its investigation into what exactly went wrong. Then it is the turn of politicians who were in charge at the time, including Eric Wiebes (Finance) and former Minister of Social Affairs Lodewijk Asscher.
Parents who were entitled to the supplement were wrongly accused of fraud by the tax authorities, after which their supplement was stopped and reclaimed.
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