Sickness Benefits Recovery Obligation in The Hague: duties and rights
The **recovery obligation** under the **Sickness Benefits Act (ZW)** applies to everyone in **The Hague** who receives benefits due to illness without an employer. You must cooperate with your **GP**, specialists and the **UWV** to promote recovery and return to work. Non-compliance may lead to sanctions such as reduction or termination of benefits. In case of disputes, you can go to the **District Court of The Hague** (Prins Clauslaan 60) or the **Legal Aid Office The Hague** (Lutherse Burgwal 10) for free advice.
What does the recovery obligation in The Hague entail?
Under the **Sickness Benefits Act**, you are obliged to actively contribute to recovery. In the The Hague region, the UWV monitors this strictly. You must:
- Follow the instructions of your **treating physician**, such as medication, therapy or lifestyle adjustments.
- Cooperate in **reintegration** via UWV programmes, such as work trial placement or coaching.
- Cooperate with **UWV assessors** and attend appointments.
- Provide information about your health and capabilities.
These rules are laid down in the **Sickness Benefits Act** and **ZW Decree**. In The Hague, the **District Court of The Hague** handles objections to UWV decisions. In case of financial problems, the **Legal Aid Office** provides first aid.
Legal basis of the recovery obligation
Key laws:
- Sickness Benefits Act (ZW), Article 14: Core of the recovery duty.
- ZW Decree: Implementation rules and sanctions.
- Work and Care Act (WWZ): Reintegration after long-term illness.
The **UWV office The Hague** (near Hollands Spoor Station) enforces this. In case of disagreement: file an objection and possibly go to **District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60**.
Practical examples of recovery obligation in The Hague
Example 1: Refusing reintegration programme
Situation: UWV The Hague offers a **reintegration programme**, e.g. training with local employers. Duty: Participate, unless doctor advises against it. Consequence: Sanction; appeal possible at **District Court of The Hague**.
Example 2: Missing UWV doctor appointment
Situation: Examination by **UWV doctor** in The Hague. Duty: Attend with medical information. Consequence: Suspension of benefits; assistance via **Legal Aid Office The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10**.
Example 3: Ignoring medical advice
Situation: GP in The Hague advises physiotherapy. Duty: Follow and provide proof. Consequence: UWV may reduce benefits; consult **Legal Aid Office** for defence.
What to do in case of sanctions in The Hague?
1. **Objection** with UWV within 6 weeks. 2. Assistance from **Legal Aid Office The Hague** (Monday to Friday, make an appointment). 3. **District Court of The Hague** for appeal (Prins Clauslaan 60, Administrative Law sector). 4. In urgent cases: pro bono lawyer via the Legal Aid Board.
Tip: Document everything. Local UWV appointments are often in The Hague Southwest.