“ZIEN dat zij er voor iemand ZIJN” – A Dutch Campaign for Invisible Informal Carers
Eurocarers warmly welcomes “ZIEN dat zij er voor iemand ZIJN” (“Seeing that they are there for somebody”), a powerful and inspiring campaign developed by our Dutch member MantelzorgNL, in collaboration with several partners and commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport. The campaign shines a light on the often invisible role of informal carers and calls for greater recognition and appreciation of their contribution to society.
Across Europe, millions of people provide unpaid care and support to family members, friends or neighbours, often alongside work and other responsibilities. Despite their essential role, informal carers frequently remain unseen and unrecognised. This campaign addresses that reality by encouraging society to truly see carers — not only their caring tasks, but also the impact this role has on their daily lives and wellbeing.
Many informal carers do not identify themselves as carers and rarely ask for help. Recognition (from family, friends, employers and communities) can therefore make a significant difference. Feeling seen and valued can strengthen carers’ resilience and help prevent exhaustion. The campaign highlights how even small gestures, such as a conversation, practical help or flexibility at work, can have a meaningful impact.
“ZIEN dat zij er voor iemand ZIJN” is supported by a broad coalition of organisations, including MantelzorgNL, Sociaal Werk Nederland, Alzheimer Nederland, ActiZ, Vilans and Zorgverzekeraars Nederland. This wide partnership underlines the shared responsibility of public authorities, civil society and communities to recognise and support informal carers.
While rooted in the Dutch context, this campaign offers valuable inspiration for stakeholders across Europe. It reinforces a core message shared by Eurocarers and its members: recognising informal carers is a crucial first step towards better support, inclusion and sustainable care systems.
Please note that this campaign and its materials are available only in Dutch but you may add the English subtitles under the videos.
