Last year, the Volunteer Center Wassenaar, in collaboration withFit in Wassenaar, a pilot run around the theme of social safety. Several workshops drew attention to a subject that is of great importance to every social organization, association and foundation.
Social safety is about how we interact with each other. About respect, boundaries, approachability and trust. This often feels obvious, but in practice this is not always the case. That is precisely why it is important to consciously consider this and start a conversation with each other.
During the workshops, Suzan van der Goes, confidential contact person, and Ida Spelt, confidential person, introduced the participants to this theme. With a lot of enthusiasm and practical examples, they made it clear what social safety means within organizations and how you can actively work on it. The meetings provided space for questions, recognition and exchange of experiences.
“We notice that the subject is becoming more and more popular, especially among sports clubs,” says Suzan van der Goes. “That is a great development. At the same time, we hope that other organizations and foundations also understand its importance and get started with it. Social security affects us all.”
The pilot shows that there is a need for knowledge, tools and an open conversation. A safe environment does not arise automatically, but requires attention, clear agreements and people who know where to go if something goes wrong.
Due to the positive reactions and thanks to the great cooperation and financial contribution from Fit in Wassenaar, the process will be continued. OnJanuary 19, 2026the Volunteer Center Wassenaar is once again organizing a Social Safety workshop. Social organizations, associations and foundations that find this topic important – or would like to discover where they can start – are very welcome.
Registration can be done viasuzan@volunteercentralewassenaar.nl.
Together we ensure that Wassenaar remains a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.
