ROTTERDAM, 21 May 2025 – Employers in the Rijnmond region are being encouraged to reconsider how they fill vacancies, as municipalities and labour market partners launch a regional campaign to address growing staff shortages by tapping into overlooked talent pools.
Employers urged to rethink hiring strategies amid staff shortages
A new campaign launched by the municipality of Rotterdam and partners in the Werkcentrum Rijnmond urges employers to reconsider outdated perceptions of jobseekers with support needs. The initiative, titled Toekomstbestendig ondernemerschap is anders kijken naar je personeel (“Future-proof entrepreneurship means viewing your staff differently”), seeks to reduce labour shortages by advocating for the inclusion of untapped talent in the workforce.
The Rijnmond region, named for its location at the mouth of the River Rhine, encompasses Rotterdam and surrounding municipalities including Schiedam, Vlaardingen, Capelle aan den IJssel and parts of the Drechtsteden, forming one of the most economically significant areas in the Netherlands.
Broad coalition supports inclusive hiring
The campaign is supported by a broad coalition including local municipalities, the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV), trade unions, educational institutions, and employer organisations such as MKB Rijnmond, VNO-NCW and ABU. Together, they call on companies to open up to hiring individuals who may require additional support, such as job coaching or adapted working conditions.
Official calls on employers to 'open their eyes'
Tim Versnel, Rotterdam’s alderman for work and income, noted that many employers continue to overlook jobseekers with support needs, despite the growing scarcity of available workers.
“I speak with many employers who, despite their staff shortages, still overlook our people. They think these individuals do not fit, but that’s based on outdated ideas,” he said. “With the right conditions, they can do great work and bring real value. Employers, open your eyes and get in touch with us—before even this talent pool runs dry.”
Support available for employers
The campaign specifically targets employers unfamiliar with the options for hiring individuals with support needs. Alongside raising awareness, the campaign highlights various schemes to assist employers, such as wage cost subsidies, wage dispensation, employment cost benefits and job coaching services. Additionally, training programmes are available to help businesses prepare for working with this group of employees.
Personalised advice available
Employers interested in exploring these opportunities can register for an advisory meeting via the Werkcentrum Rijnmond website. The centre serves as a regional point of contact for employers, employees and jobseekers with questions regarding work and development. Comprising more than 30 partners, Werkcentrum Rijnmond provides information, advice and practical, tailored support.
