Job opening Policy Advisor for the Social Support Act (Wmo) and Suicide Prevention

Do you want to develop policies that directly contribute to our residents’ self-reliance and their ability to live comfortably, enjoy life, and participate in the community? If so, we have a meaningful challenge for you. The Community Team is looking for a Wmo and Suicide Prevention Policy Advisor for 36 hours per week.

As a policy advisor for the Social Support Act (Wmo) and suicide prevention, you’ll help strengthen the social foundation: a society in which residents are resilient, look out for one another, and can move forward as much as possible on their own or with help from their community. And when necessary, we offer tailored professional support. 
You’ll bridge the gap between policy and practice, collaborate with (regional) partners, and contribute to important social issues such as the Wmo, early detection of mental health problems, and suicide prevention.

What are you going to do?

Social Support Act (Wmo)
You will develop and implement policies that help residents live as independently as possible and participate in society. In doing so, you will look beyond just Wmo services. You will serve as a sounding board for the neighborhood social team, VraagWijzer West Maas en Waal , on complex issues and social developments. In addition, within the Rivierenland Region, you’ll collaborate on regional projects and policy initiatives. These include ensuring the long-term sustainability of household support services, further developing Wmo oversight, and preventing healthcare fraud.

In addition, you will develop and implement local policies for suicide prevention and the early detection of mental health issues. You will work closely with the Gelderland-Zuid Municipal Health Service (GGD) and other community partners, among others. The focus is on creating a society where mental health is an open topic of discussion and residents receive timely, appropriate support.

In short: A versatile and meaningful role in which you’ll work on social issues that really matter.

And of course:

  • Do you proactively advise the Alderman ;
  • Write clear and concise executive board and council proposals;
  • Take the initiative to collaborate with colleagues within the municipality and the region, as well as with partners in the supply chain.

On-the-job coaching and development? It's possible!

Are you ready to start your career at a dynamic municipality? You’re more than welcome! As long as you’re enthusiastic and eager to learn, we’ll provide on-the-job coaching and development. An experienced policy advisor will teach you the ins and outs of the job. And of course, we warmly invite you to apply if you’re experienced! In that case, too, we’re more than willing to invest in your (personal) development.

What do we expect from you?

You are a (young) professional who is eager to learn and enthusiastic. You enjoy coming up with new ideas and solutions both on your own and together with your colleagues. In doing so, you never lose sight of factors such as time and quality.

You have:

  • At least a higher vocational education (HBO) level of work and thinking, and knowledge of the Social Support Act (Wmo) and the Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Act;
  • A passion for everything related to support and care;
  • Preferably, experience with Wmo policy.

What do we offer you? 

  • A salary of up to €5,624 (job grade 10) for a 36-hour workweek. The salary depends on your education and experience;
  • A one-year employment contract. If your performance is satisfactory, we will convert this to a permanent contract;
  • A monthly supplement of 17.05% of your gross salary: the Individual Choice Budget (IKB). This includes vacation pay, life-course savings contributions, and a year-end bonus. You can use this for things like extra pay, vacation time, or a new bicycle;
  • Do you have student debt with DUO? If so, you can use your IKB to make an annual partial payment;
  • A good pension plan with the ABP Pension Fund;
  • You can work partly from home and will be provided with a phone and laptop; 
  • Commuting expenses and a work-from-home allowance; 
  • A wellness allowance of €500 gross per year (based on a 36-hour workweek). For example, for a gym membership, sportswear, or a visit to the sauna;
  • Your daily serving of fruit;
  • Ample free parking for your car and bicycle;
  • A friendly and informal work environment. Your colleagues will welcome you with open arms and make sure you feel at home right away;
  • What to do during your break? Plenty! Take a walk along the beautiful dyke, go shopping in our charming town center, or grab a sandwich at the bakery around the corner—it’s all within walking distance.

Your future team 

Of course, it’s helpful to know where you’ll be working after the two rounds of interviews. You’ll be joining the Community team. It’s a dedicated, active, and sociable team consisting of more than 25 employees. As an employee, you’re never on your own; you’re part of the bigger picture. Together with your colleagues, you’ll work based on the core values of Together, Responsible, and Professional. You know your strengths and limitations and always ask yourself: where and how can I add value?

Let West Maas en Waal surprise you! 

The beautiful region of West Maas en Waal will surprise you: impressive dikes, green floodplains, and varied landscapes can be admired along the various hiking and biking trails. The small villages also give you the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time—but with a modern twist.  

The municipality West Maas en Waal over 20,000 residents and is located (as the name suggests) between the Maas and Waal rivers. The combination of excellent accessibility (A15, A73, A50), numerous amenities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a municipality you’ll come to love. 

Take a look and see for yourself how much fun it is to work with us! 

Are you interested, or do you have any questions? 

Please submit your cover letter and resume by September 6, 2026, via the application portal at www.werkeningelderland.nl. Address your cover letter to Renate Kornelis, Team Manager for Community Affairs. If you have any questions regarding the job description or the application process, please contact Karin Brookman, Wmo Policy Advisor. 

Karin Brookman can be reached at 06 8205 1335 or by email at kbrookman@westmaasenwaal.nl.   

Apply at job opening for the position of Policy Advisor for the Wmo and Suicide Prevention

This job opening has been published simultaneously internally and externally. Internal candidates will be given priority.

We understand that this is a recruitment opportunity, but we will not respond to such inquiries.