The municipality of Aalten helps young people to be well prepared for turning 18
Young people in the municipality of Aalten who are about to turn 18 will now receive a postcard from the municipality approximately three months before their birthday. The Map with the tongue-in-cheek title "Time to stand on your own two feet"—draws their attention to important matters that they will have to arrange themselves once they turn 18. Parents/guardians will also receive a letter about this.
A lot changes when you turn 18. Young people become adults in the eyes of the law and must, among other things, apply for a DigiD, take out health insurance, and—if applicable—arrange for benefits or student financing.
Good preparation
Alderman emphasizes the importance of good preparation: "For many young people, this is the first time they have to deal with the government themselves. That can be quite complicated. With this Map the information on our website, we help them and their parents get started."
Clear information in one place
The municipality of Aalten has set up a special page on its website:'Almost 18'. This page provides a clear overview of what young people are required to arrange and what it is wise to check. It also contains information about financial matters, help with finding work, and where to go with questions.
Parents also receive a letter explaining what their child's 18th birthday may mean for them, for example in terms of child benefit, allowances, and health insurance.
First Map on the bus
To mark the start of this new approach, Alderman symbolically Map the first Map . With this structural approach, the municipality wants to prevent young people from missing important matters or getting into unnecessary financial difficulties.