Sint-Niklaas (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Sint-Niklaas welfare groups and Waasland labor court launched “First Aid for Collective Debt Settlement” to help 1,200 families, with Steven Bouckaert and Steffi Demeyer leading support.
As VRT News reported, Sint-Niklaas welfare organisations are working with the labour court to start a program called “First Aid for Collective Debt Settlement.” These settlements involve debt mediators, the labour court, and sometimes social workers from the Public Centre for Social Welfare (OCMW). In practice, communication between these groups is not always smooth. People often face delays or confusion when trying to resolve their debts.
What is Sint-Niklaas’ First Aid for Collective Debt Settlement program?
A help centre will open in Sint-Niklaas to give residents direct assistance. Visitors can get practical advice, personal guidance, and confidential counselling. Staff will explain how collective debt settlements work and help people manage their finances.
“This identifies the family’s practical needs and establishes contacts with the appropriate agencies,”
says Demeyer.
“In this way, we want to ensure that an arrangement is made that allows people to pay off their debts and, at the same time, live a dignified life.”
In the Waasland region, about 1,200 families are taking part in a collective debt settlement program. Around half of these families live in Sint-Niklaas. Steven Bouckaert, president of the Waasland labor court, says the number of applications is growing. Many residents are turning to professional support to handle their debts.
“We’re noticing an increase in the number of applications,”
Steven Bouckaert, president of the Waasland labor court.
Among the recent participants are Kees and Bianca, who joined the program to get help and advice.
“It’s a good system that gives us peace of mind,”
they say.
“Communication with debt counsellors is very important for us to keep that survival instinct in check.”
People who want to use the “First Aid for Collective Debt Settlement” program can visit the Welfare House every second Tuesday of the month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Those who cannot attend at that time can make an appointment at De Springplank.
The collective debt settlement method started in 1999, allows individuals to collaborate with debt mediators and the labor court to create affordable payment plans. Over the years, welfare organizations and courts in different regions have created regional projects that help families maneuver through the process, provide assistance, and improve communication between the mediators and social services.
