The municipality of Arnhem grants Refugee Work Netherlands (VWN) a one-time additional subsidy of €132,848. This bridging aims to mitigate the negative effects of the national budget cuts to VWN, which have been reduced by nearly two-thirds as of 2026. Arnhem is one of the first municipalities to take this step.
Refugee Work plays an essential role in the social and legal support of refugees. At reception locations, the organization helps people with information, guidance, and referrals, especially for vulnerable groups. Due to the reduction of national funding, VWN can be less present on site, risking less oversight of vulnerable residents and pressure on preventive guidance and referrals.
Continuing to Help Vulnerable Newcomers
Paul Smeulders, Alderman for Refugees: “For years we have worked wonderfully together with Refugee Work in Arnhem. I have seen firsthand how indispensable their work is. They are often the first to see, speak to, and help very vulnerable people. We provide this one-time contribution so that Refugee Work remains visible and available for the most vulnerable at our reception locations despite the national budget cuts.”
The additional Arnhem subsidy is intended to maintain existing structures pending possible restoration of national funding. With the subsidy, Refugee Work organizes group meetings and theme sessions at five reception locations in Arnhem, so that people who need guidance most remain better visible. It is expected that 240 group meetings can take place this year.
Transition Scheme
The municipality pays the one-time subsidy from available budget resources. If the funds prove unnecessary because the national budget cut is reversed faster than expected, unused funds will be returned by Refugee Work.