A parliamentary debate has highlighted critical failures in the mental healthcare system, particularly concerning the treatment of vulnerable psychiatric patients who may pose a danger to themselves or others. The debate stems from a parliamentary investigation revealing a fragmented approach, a lack of overarching policy, and the frequent placement of at-risk individuals on the streets.

Members of Parliament expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current cabinet’s slow progress in implementing the 25 recommendations from the investigation, with only a few being adopted. The sentiment was that the system is failing, leading to preventable fatal incidents, and that urgent solutions are needed.

The presence of multiple ministers at the debate – the Minister of Justice and Security, the Minister of the Interior, and two State Secretaries – was seen by some as emblematic of the problem: a lack of clear accountability. Calls were made for Judith Uitermark (Internal Affairs, NSC) to assume a permanent role as ‘process manager’ to drive solutions.

Uitermark acknowledged the long-standing and complex nature of the problem, expressing reluctance to become the sole ‘problem owner,’ but committed to working with dedication to find a solution. She pledged to develop a ‘work agenda’ in collaboration with the other involved ministers.

The police have been burdened for years with handling cases involving individuals exhibiting confused or incomprehensible behavior, consuming the equivalent of 400 to 600 full-time positions annually. Earlier this year, the police advocated for a fundamental overhaul of the care system following the death of 11-year-old Sohani, who was fatally stabbed by a man with reported psychotic symptoms.

This case and others have underscored the critical need for improved information sharing between police and care institutions, and for ensuring that patients receive appropriate care. The focus extends beyond the estimated 1,500 complex psychiatric patients who could potentially become dangerous; there’s also concern for the 10,000 to 30,000 psychiatric patients who are vulnerable to neglect, nuisance, or becoming victims of crime.

Elsa Doze of Fivoor, a mental healthcare institution specializing in forensic psychiatry, echoed the call for simplification of the care system. She pointed out that workers often encounter a labyrinth of regulations, hindering their ability to effectively assist complex psychiatric patients. She advocated for centralized responsibility under a single minister.