Available for Work
Available for work is an essential requirement for unemployment benefits in Westland. This means you can start a job immediately, actively pursue vacancies, and are willing to accept work that suits your skills, health, and personal circumstances. In the horticulture-rich Westland region, with abundant opportunities in greenhouses and logistics, this is especially important. Failure to meet this requirement can result in the suspension of your benefits.
Legal Basis
The rules on availability for work are set out in the Unemployment Act (WW), particularly Article 13 WW. A jobseeker is considered available if they can commence suitable employment immediately in line with their work capacity. The band of suitability is detailed in Article 13(2) and (3) WW: during the initial phase (first two months), a broader band applies (up to 10% lower pay and hours), followed by a stricter one (maximum 5% lower).
For social assistance in Westland, the Participation Act applies via the Municipality of Westland, but WW claims are assessed and monitored by the UWV. Sanctions for non-compliance, such as a wage sanction of 50% to 100% (Article 28 WW), can be challenged at the District Court of Westland.
What Does Availability for Work Mean in Westland?
Be immediately employable: no vacations without UWV approval, flexible with hours and travel time to jobs in Westland or surrounding areas. Active job searching is crucial: meet the UWV standard (usually 4 per month), targeting local sectors like greenhouse horticulture. Suitable work follows the band of suitability:
- First 2 months of WW: jobs up to 10% lower pay/hours, within reasonable distance (max. 3 hours travel, e.g., from Monster to Poeldijk).
- Thereafter: up to 5% lower, aligned with qualifications and experience in the region.
Running your own small business? Prioritize paid employment, such as at Westland greenhouse companies. Students or retirees have specific conditions.
Band of Suitability Overview
| Period | Income Reduction | Hours Reduction | Travel Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| First 2 months | Max. 10% | Max. 10% | Reasonable (up to 3 hours) |
| After 2 months | Max. 5% | No reduction | Reasonable |
| After 1 year WW | No band, all work | All work | All work |
Practical Examples from Westland
Example 1: Jan from 's-Gravenzande, 45, former manager at a flower nursery (€4,000 salary). In the first two months, he applies for jobs from €3,600; he must accept a shift leader role (€3,500). Later, €3,800 becomes the minimum.
Example 2: Marie from Naaldwijk, pregnant, seeking part-time logistics work. UWV makes temporary adjustments; post-birth, short-term care leave applies, followed by full availability.
Example 3: Tom from Kwintsheul with freelance horticulture gigs alongside WW. He complies by prioritizing paid employment and applying weekly for permanent jobs.
Practical Exceptions
Full availability is not always required:
- Illness: Report to UWV for possible sickness benefits (Sickness Benefits).
- Care leave: Up to 6 weeks per year via UWV.
- Study: Provided it does not hinder job searching.
- Vacation: Max. 4 weeks/year with UWV permission, e.g., during Westland asparagus season.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- UWV intake and labour market agreement (AVP).
- Appeal within 4 weeks, possibly to the District Court of Westland.
- Support for reintegration via the Municipality of Westland or UWV.
Obligations:
- Register weekly in the UWV IKK portal.
- Keep proof of job applications (vacancy numbers, responses).
- Report changes such as relocation within Westland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be available full-time in Westland?
No, part-time is fine if it falls within the band, but be prepared for more hours than your WW daily rate.
What if I refuse a job?
Refusing suitable work: 50% sanction in month 1, 100% in month 2. Repetition extends it.
Combining WW with side income?
Yes, up to 87.5% of former salary (deducted). Above 52% of daily rate, no WW day.
Ill during WW?
Report to UWV immediately; sickness benefits possible, WW entitlement paused for 104 weeks.
Tips for Westlanders
Avoid issues:
- Document: Save job applications and UWV submissions.
- UWV portal: Update weekly.
- Seek help: Reintegration coach or Apply for WW.
- Legal advice: Contact Het Juridisch Loket Westland for free consultations on sanctions.
- Network: LinkedIn, local agencies, and horticulture trade shows in Westland.
Related: Apply for WW in Westland, WW Wage Sanction, Band of Suitability.