Rotterdam pilot gives EU labour migrants a new start

ROTTERDAM, 16 October 2025 — Six Rotterdam-based employers have joined forces to help homeless EU labour migrants rebuild their lives by offering them paid work and housing. The initiative is part of the Rotterdam Coalition for Good Employment Practices, launched in 2024 as the first of its kind in the Netherlands.

The coalition consists of Labour Power Company, People 21, Tempo-Team, Network People B.V., Vebego Zorg and Timing. Together, these employers are setting out to prove that good employment can go hand in hand with social responsibility.

Work and housing under one roof

Participants will be matched with employers who not only provide work but also accommodation. The focus in the first phase is on restoring structure and building a work routine. Internal job coaches will provide personal guidance, while additional care and counselling are available for those struggling with addiction or mental health issues.

If the first contract period goes well, employees will receive an extension and, where appropriate, a personal development programme to help them move towards long-term stability and independence.

“These employers are not only offering EU labour migrants a job, but also a chance to rebuild a dignified life,” said Alderman Tim Versnel (responsible for EU labour migration). “Our economy depends on migrant workers, and it’s time more employers take this responsibility seriously. This kind of employment is the future.”

Learning what works

The pilot programme focuses on helping EU migrants who are ready for reintegration find work, stability and perspective. It’s deliberately small-scale and carefully tailored, as every participant’s needs differ. The goal is to learn which methods are most effective in supporting sustainable reintegration.

Two social organisations — Stichting Ontmoeting and Stichting Barka — are closely involved in the project.

Shelter and reintegration

At the municipal shelter on Volkelstraat, the City of Rotterdam already helps homeless EU citizens find sustainable solutions. Residents are supported on the condition that they actively participate in follow-up programmes, which may include returning to work or returning to their home country.

Of the 227 people who completed such a programme, 101 successfully transitioned into work and housing.

Voices from employers

Paul Kooiker, Kobus P&O / Labour Power Company:
“Work is a foundation for participation in society. Everyone has talent, and we believe in giving people the opportunity to use it. Our experience with re-integrating employees via the Salvation Army has been very positive, so we’re open to helping this group rebuild their lives.”

Jasper Molendijk, People21:
“As employers, we have not only an economic but also a social responsibility. Good employment means more than a contract — it’s about giving people a new chance, with work, guidance and a roof over their heads.”