Geel, a town in Belgium, boasts a remarkable and longstanding tradition of family foster care for individuals with mental illness. For centuries, dating back to at least the 13th century, Geel has served as a unique sanctuary, renowned for its community-based approach to mental health care. The origins and enduring success of the foster care programs in Geel are deeply intertwined with local history, religious beliefs, and a profound community commitment.
The Religious Roots of Geel’s Foster Care Success
The narrative of St. Dymphna is central to understanding the genesis of Geel’s compassionate care system. According to legend, Dymphna, an Irish princess from County Tyrone, sought refuge in Geel during the 7th century to escape her troubled father. Tragically, she was murdered in the forests near Geel. Her martyrdom, occurring around 600 AD, coincided with a period when mental illness was often attributed to demonic possession. The belief arose that St. Dymphna, who had resisted her father’s madness, possessed the power to intercede on behalf of those suffering from such afflictions.
This belief transformed Geel into a pilgrimage site. People seeking cures for mental illness journeyed to St. Dymphna’s tomb, hoping for miraculous intervention. The burgeoning influx of pilgrims necessitated accommodation, and the inhabitants of Geel and nearby farmers began opening their homes to these individuals. This act of hospitality, initially intended for pilgrims undergoing religious rituals, gradually evolved into a more permanent arrangement. Some pilgrims, experiencing comfort and support within Geel families, chose to remain even after their pilgrimages concluded. This organic development marked the true birth of family foster care in Geel, long before formal psychiatric hospitals became established elsewhere in Europe.
Community Initiative Driving the Success of Foster Care in Geel
What distinguishes the success of the foster care programs in Geel from early mental health initiatives in places like Valencia or Paris is its grassroots nature. Unlike those programs, which were often instigated by church officials or physicians, Geel’s system arose directly from the community. The peasants and burghers of Geel took the initiative, demonstrating a unique societal responsibility for those with mental health challenges.
The church played a guardianship role in the early years, but in 1852, the Belgian state assumed oversight, placing the program under medical direction. The system flourished, reaching its zenith just before World War II, caring for almost 4000 patients within Geel families. These patients came from diverse backgrounds, including Belgium, the Netherlands, France, England, Spain, and Russia, representing a wide spectrum of mental health conditions. Funding for care was provided by patients’ families or their communities, highlighting a shared responsibility.
A crucial element contributing to the success of foster care in Geel was the rigorous selection process for host families. “Certification,” a term of pride in Geel, required families to possess impeccable moral standing, free from any legal or ethical blemishes. This certification was not merely a formality; it was a matter of social prestige, deeply ingrained in the community’s values. The tradition of providing foster care became a cherished raison d’être, passed down through generations. Certain families even developed reputations for specializing in the care of specific patient types, further emphasizing the personalized and skilled nature of the Geel model.
Adaptability and Management within Geel’s Successful Foster Care Model
To manage more acute situations, an infirmary was established in Geel. Patients experiencing severe episodes or requiring intensive medical attention could be admitted for observation and treatment. Crucially, the infirmary was not intended as a long-term institution. The goal was always to return patients to their foster families after recovery. Only in cases where family placement proved unsuitable were patients transferred to more conventional closed mental hospitals.
The admission process to the infirmary, and subsequently to foster care, was remarkably informal and patient-centered. Medical staff and town representatives collaboratively assessed each individual’s needs. Placement decisions were often based on a collective understanding of which family would be the best fit for a particular patient. While initial placements were usually successful, occasional adjustments were made to ensure the patient found the most supportive and appropriate home environment. With a greater availability of foster homes than patients, Geel was able to maintain an impressive 80% retention rate for individuals entering its boarding care system.
In conclusion, the success of the foster care programs in Geel is a testament to a unique blend of historical circumstances, religious influence, and, most importantly, profound community engagement. Originating from acts of pilgrimage hospitality, nurtured by generations of dedicated families, and sustained by a commitment to personalized care, Geel’s model offers a compelling historical example of successful community-based mental health support.
