Pilot Youth Meeting Place "De Peel" in Beneden-Leeuwen

JOP stands for "Youth Meeting Place." The name says it all: it’s a place where young people can meet. A JOP can take many forms, ranging from a simple bench to an entire building.

The idea of creating a JOP stems from the " Space for Youth" project. We want to positively encourage, engage, and reach young people (ages 12–18). We do this by promoting youth participation and listening to their needs.

"Space for Youth" originated from the 2022–2026 coalition agreement. This agreement includes the mission to develop a comprehensive youth policy and to create a dedicated meeting place for young people.

Young people’s needs are changing. They want to “chill out” more—and at an earlier age. This is evident from two different surveys, among other sources: one survey distributed to first- and second-year Pax students, and another conducted at the “Next Generation” festival in April 2024. In addition, several conversations with young people have been held that confirm this need. Both professionals and parents have indicated this.

A pilot is a trial or test period. In the case of the JOP, we have opted for a pilot period of one year following installation. This will allow us to assess the impact of the JOP across all seasons.

We will set up the JOP on the lawn along the Peel in Beneden-Leeuwen.

We will install the JOP in June. Immediate neighbors, local organizations, and young people have been informed of the installation date.

Beneden-Leeuwen

In Beneden-Leeuwen , we Beneden-Leeuwen two KJOEPS. The KJOEPS are positioned diagonally across from each other, forming a small plaza. The KJOEPS are shaped like half-open cubes, with their openings facing each other. The KJOEPS are equipped with two benches, a small table, and a hanging bar. Both are dark green in color. This color complements the green field. We are placing a trash can next to the KJOEP. To reach the KJOEP, we are installing a concrete path. This path runs from the existing sidewalk. This makes the KJOEP easier for everyone to reach.

Visualization of the JOP Beneden-Leeuwen

The youth worker interacts with young people on a regular basis. He can often be found at the JOP. The youth worker is also available to talk with you, if you’d like.

Read more about Youth Work

• You can use the BuitenBeter to report issues such as litter or noise. Reports can be submitted 24/7.
• Boa by phone: available during municipal office hours at 14 0487.
• Is there an urgent disturbance? Or have you witnessed a crime, such as vandalism? If so, please contact the police at 0900 8844.
• In case of immediate danger, always call the police at 112.

We organized three evaluation sessions during the first year of the JOP. The first in-person evaluation session took place in September 2025. The second evaluation consisted of a questionnaire and the opportunity to participate in an interview. And the final evaluation consisted of the opportunity to have an individual meeting with the municipality.

In the meantime, we contacted those involved by phone when requested. During the evaluation, we also discussed the reports we received regarding the JOP. There were five such reports in the first year, primarily concerning litter.

The pilot was completed in June 2026. The pilot provided valuable insights. These insights form the basis for our continued efforts in youth and youth work related to the JOP. In the coming years, we will continue to work together with young people, local residents, and partners to create a safe and livable environment.