Here is what you can do if you do not feel safe in the reception centre
During your stay in the reception centre, you may encounter discrimination, intimidation, threats or violence. For example, by other asylum seekers in the reception location where you live. This is not allowed under Dutch law. And this behaviour is punishable. You can report this to the police. And there are organisations that can help you.
Here is where you can go for support
Do you not feel safe in the reception centre where you live? Are you being bullied, threatened, intimidated or assaulted by fellow residents? Then go to your contact at the
You can also discuss serious incidents with your lawyer. Especially if you have not felt safe for some time. Perhaps they can help with a transfer request.
And you can file a report with the police. You can do this online on the police website or by calling 0900 - 8844. When you report the crime, you are asking the police to punish the perpetrator. This can only be done if there is a crime such as theft, internet scam, assault, threat or rape. In some cases, you can also file a report with the police: for example, if you are afraid that something will happen in the future. The police can then monitor the situation. Consult with COA or VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) if you want to make a report or report. Ask someone from VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) if they can help you if you prefer not to go to the police alone.
LGBT Asylum Support can support you if you are an LGBTQIA+ individual
Are you an LGBTQIA+ individual and can COA or VWN not help you properly? Then there are also LGBTQIA+ organisations you can go to. You can
As an LGBTQIA+ individal, you can also contact Roze in Blauw
Always contact 112 if you are in danger
Always call 112 if you are in immediate danger. 112 is the emergency number in the Netherlands. You will immediately get someone from the emergency centre to speak to you. They ask you where you are and whether you want to speak to an ambulance, fire department or police. Often you have to answer a few more questions. This is necessary to ensure that you get the right help.