Assistance services for families
If you have a problem relating to work, housing or finances, or you are suffering from mental health issues, family problems, isolation or social marginalisation, you can turn to one of several organisations dedicated to helping and supporting individuals and families experiencing difficulties or in a precarious situation.
- There is a Centre Public d'Action Sociale (CPAS) in every commune. Contact External linkyour commune for the address. You can also visit the dedicated CPAS website for the Brussels-Capital Region for full External linkinformation on the scope and organisation of CPAS branches in Brussels (FR/NL).
- Social Services in the communes also provide free assistance to socially isolated individuals, families and groups. The list of Social Services is available at 'External linkBruxelles Social en ligne' (FR/NL), an interactive social map of the Brussels-Capital Region in French and Dutch, providing access to the full spread of social and health services.
- On the website of the Common Community Commission you can find the External linkreception, assistance and health care services (FR/NL) and the External linkassistance services for individuals (home help, assistance for senior citizens or disabled persons, protection services for young people, assistance centres, ...) (FR/NL) in Brussels.
- Many assistance services are also online, including emergency services. See the Health section of this website.
For French speakers
The website of the French Community Commission (COCOF) provides in its section about well-being and health information about External linkreception, assistance and health care services as well as supported accommodation (FR).
For Dutch speakers
The non-profit association Kenniscenrtrum W(elzijn) W(onen) Z(org) aims for better welfare, new forms of housing and affordable care for all Brussels citizens, especially for vulnerable people.
On its website you can find information about External linkassistance services to families (NL).
Need some help around the house? Why not use service vouchers?
External linkService vouchers (FR/NL) allow private individuals to hire housekeeping services at affordable pricesExternal link.
An intergenerational approach to housing
The association External link1Toit2âges offers intergenerational housing solutions by matching older people and families with students looking for accommodation.
This approach offers benefits to both parties. The householders or families get some help around the house, companionship and some extra income, while students can find affordable and friendly accommodation.