Investigation into placements at Huize Soria in Spain

◆3 sources

An independent investigation found that youth protection organisation SAVE Midden-Nederland, also referred to as Samen Veilig Midden-Nederland, had for years placed young people at Huize Soria in Spain without the required authorisation and had insufficiently acted on reports of unsafe conditions. The investigation found that young people were exposed to intimidation, physical violence, unlawful restrictions of liberty and sexually inappropriate behaviour. One youth protection worker placed six young people there for the municipality of Veenendaal without consulting the expert group intended for such cases, according to the report.

SAVE acknowledged shortcomings and said it would draw up an improvement plan. Huize Soria, run by a Dutch couple, denied the allegations of violence and said municipalities knew its educational approach. The Spanish inspectorate closed the facility at the end of September because it lacked a licence, and the seven minors then staying there had to leave. A parliamentary majority and several child-rights organisations want a broader investigation into the placements, but the youth minister does not support one and refers to the SAVE investigation and planned legislation limiting placements abroad.

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Crime

Allegations of abuse at Huize Soria in Spain

13 sources

Former residents alleged that Dutch young people placed at Huize Soria, a family home in Spain, were subjected for years to physical and psychological abuse and unlawful restrictions on their freedom. Reported practices included isolation, withholding food, restricted contact with relatives, continuous camera surveillance and denial of education. Experts cited in the reports said the accounts showed signs of structural abuse and child torture. Dutch municipalities, youth-protection bodies and care providers were reported to have known of the home’s methods and, in some cases, earlier safety concerns, but to have continued placements. The Dutch Health and Youth Care Inspectorate said it had received reports about the home since 2016 but could not supervise abroad. Huize Soria is closed after the Spanish inspectorate found its authorisations were not in order. Huize Soria denied the allegations and said it intends to file complaints for defamation and slander against the journalists and former residents involved. The minister responsible for youth affairs continues to reject an independent inquiry, while calling on municipalities to stop placing young people abroad for the time being; reports said a parliamentary majority supports an investigation. Several former residents are considering reporting the family parents to police or pursuing legal action.