Roosendaal's inclusivity programme boosts social bonds and well-being for residents
A municipal programme in Roosendaal is making strides in fostering an inclusive society, with 71% of participants feeling more connected to their community. The initiative, aimed at equal opportunities, has positively impacted social contacts and local well-being, though challenges remain in deepening its reach.
| Indicator | Result |
|---|---|
| Liveability | 64% experience a positive impact on their physical living environment |
| Social connectedness | 71% feel more connected to other Roosendaal residents |
| Social contacts | 74% see an increase in number; 76% report improved quality |
| Social safety | 82% report no change in threats or discrimination |
| Trust and respect | 46% feel more trust, respect, and inclusiveness in their environment |
| Programme continuation | Strong demand for extension beyond 2026 |
The municipality of Roosendaal is responsible for implementing local policies that promote social inclusion and equal opportunities. This programme aligns with the council’s priority to create an inclusive society where all residents can participate fully and feel valued.
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Positive results for 'Participation and Equal Opportunities' programme
The municipality of Roosendaal has conducted research into the results of the implementation programme 'Participation and Equal Opportunities', which was established in 2023. The programme was designed to give effect to council priority 3: an inclusive society. The goal: to work from the municipality towards a society where all residents experience equal opportunities and can fully participate.
In the first phase, the focus was on raising awareness of emancipation and inclusion themes and on making municipal policy more inclusive. The research report shows that the programme's activities are noticeably contributing to the well-being and social environment of participants.
According to the research, the programme is having clearly positive effects on three out of four indicators examined:
Liveability: 64% of respondents experience a positive impact on their physical living environment.
Social connectedness: 71% feel more connected to other Roosendaal residents through participation in programme activities.
Social contacts: 74% see an increase in the number of social contacts and 76% experience an improvement in the quality of those contacts.
Neutral effect on social safety, but growing trust and respect: While the programme does not show direct changes in areas such as threats, discrimination, bullying or inappropriate behaviour (82% reported no change), there are positive signals indicating a more inclusive social culture. For example, 46% of participants feel more trust, respect and inclusiveness in their own environment. And for 44%, the situation remained stable.
The open responses in the research confirm a broad appreciation: participants cite numerous examples of positive experiences and express their appreciation for both the content and the implementation of the programme.
Several areas for improvement are also mentioned, particularly regarding further deepening and broadening. An important signal is that many participants indicate they would be disappointed if the programme were to stop after 2026. The need for continuation is unanimously described as great and valuable.
“This research shows that we are making real progress with 'Participation and Equal Opportunities'. But it also shows how great the need is to continue with this. An inclusive society cannot be achieved in a few years. Together with residents, organisations and partners, we will continue to build a Roosendaal where everyone feels seen, safe and welcome,” emphasises councillor Evelien van der Star (Inclusion).
Continuation of the programme
The programme will continue as planned in 2026. From 2027, the next council of mayor and aldermen will decide on the continuation of the programme and policy.
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