Long-Term Care Leave in Den Haag
In Den Haag, as an employee, you are entitled to unpaid long-term care leave to provide intensive informal care to a family member, partner, or housemate with a chronic condition, disability, or on their deathbed. You may take up to six times your normal weekly hours, spread over a maximum of six consecutive weeks. This helps Den Haag informal caregivers retain their jobs while providing care.
Legal Framework for Long-Term Care Leave
Long-term care leave is regulated in the Work and Care Act (Wazo), articles 5:5 to 5:8. This national law applies to all Den Haag employees with contracts under Dutch law, whether permanent, flexible, part-time, or full-time. The aim is to support informal care and improve work-life balance, which is relevant for the diverse working population in our city.
Key points from the Wazo:
- Leave is unpaid, but your contract remains valid.
- Employers in Den Haag may not block it if conditions are met.
- No accrual of vacation days or pension during leave.
Eligibility Conditions for Long-Term Care Leave in Den Haag
You qualify if:
- You provide informal care to someone with a long-term care need, such as chronic illness, multiple disabilities, or terminal phase.
- The person is a close relative (child, parent, sibling, grandparent), partner, or housemate.
- You take on the primary care that cannot be fully provided by professionals.
- You have an employment contract; no minimum duration required.
Your employer may request proof, such as a medical statement from a Den Haag GP or district nurse.
Duration and Taking Long-Term Care Leave
Maximum of six times your weekly hours, over a maximum of six weeks. Example: for 36 hours per week, that is 216 hours. In Den Haag, with many part-timers, this is flexibly applicable.
Take it in blocks of at least half a day, preferably outside peak hours. Notify at least two weeks in advance in writing, except in urgent cases.
Comparison: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Care Leave
| Aspect | Short-Term | Long-Term |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Max. 2x weekly hours/year | Max. 6x weekly hours/6 weeks |
| Payment | Salary continued | Unpaid |
| Care Need | Acute | Chronic/terminal phase |
| Notice | 4 weeks (shorter for emergencies) | 2 weeks |
Read more in our care leave overview.
Rights and Obligations of Den Haag Employees
Rights:
- Protection against dismissal around leave.
- Return to an equivalent position.
- Equal opportunities for promotion and pay.
- Timely written notice.
- Provide proof if requested.
- Cooperate on scheduling for business continuity.
Employers must cooperate but may suggest spreading it out.
Practical Examples from Den Haag
Example 1: Marie from the Binckhorst (32 hours/week) cares for her mother with dementia. She takes 128 hours of leave over 4 weeks, approved after a statement from a Den Haag GP. Her job remains secure.
Example 2: Ahmed's partner has terminal cancer; he claims 160 hours. Despite peak pressure at his Den Haag employer, it must be allowed due to urgency.
Example 3: Part-timer Lisa (20 hours/week) from Segbroek uses leave for her disabled child, spread over 6 weeks with consultation – went smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine short-term and long-term care leave?
Yes, within limits. Short-term for sudden care, long-term for intensive. Keep track for Den Haag employers.
What if my employer refuses leave?
Not allowed if conditions are met. Step 1: Object in writing. Step 2: Go to the District Court in Den Haag. Free advice at Juridisch Loket Den Haag. Report to the Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW). More on employment disputes.
Benefits during leave?
No, unpaid. Check informal care support via Municipality of Den Haag (Wmo) or allowances. Self-employed: possibly UWV via informal care benefit.
Does it apply to flex contracts?
Yes, all contracts, including on-call workers in Den Haag.
Tips for Successful Leave in Den Haag
For smooth uptake:
- Prepare: Document care needs with a local doctor.
- Consult early: Involve your employer and Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
- Support: Apply for Wmo assistance from Municipality of Den Haag.
- Record: Track hours for any disputes.