The WIEG Scheme: Paid Parental Leave in Westland
The WIEG scheme (Paid Parental Leave Act) provides working parents in Westland with nine weeks of paid leave upon the birth of their child. This is in addition to the standard birth leave and is available to both parents. The benefit amounts to 70% of your daily wage (capped at a maximum) and is administered by the UWV. Since 1 August 2022, this scheme has helped parents in municipalities such as Naaldwijk and Monster spend more quality time with their newborn.
What Does the WIEG Scheme Mean for Residents of Westland?
The WIEG scheme expands the Dutch leave system by introducing paid parental leave. Previously, fathers or partners could only count on unpaid parental leave or a short paid birth leave of 5 days. Now, both parents are entitled to nine consecutive weeks of leave, part of which is paid. This must be taken within one year of the birth, in consultation with your employer and as a continuous block.
The law promotes a fair balance between work and care, ideal for families in Westland's horticulture sector or other industries. It primarily targets the mother's partner, but mothers can also use it after maternity leave.
Legal Basis of the WIEG Scheme
The WIEG scheme is enshrined in the Paid Parental Leave Act, which amends the Work and Care Act (WAZO). Relevant provisions include:
- Article 1:1(1) WAZO: Definition of parental leave.
- Article 2:1 WAZO: Duration of nine weeks.
- Article 6:1 WAZO: UWV benefit.
It complies with EU Directive 2019/1158 on work-life balance. The maximum daily wage for 2024 is € 274.44, linked to the Sickness Benefits Act.
Eligibility Conditions for WIEG Leave in Westland
To qualify for the WIEG scheme, the following requirements apply:
- You are an employee (including on-call workers with ≥26 weeks of service).
- Birth on or after 1 August 2022.
- Taken within 52 weeks of birth.
- Notify employer at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Apply to UWV before the first day of leave.
Self-employed individuals in Westland are not eligible for the benefit but have leave rights with clients.
Rights and Obligations under WIEG
Rights as an Employee
- Nine weeks of part-time leave (up to 50% of normal hours).
- Protection against dismissal during and after leave.
- UWV benefit: 70% of social insurance daily wage (max. € 274.44 in 2024).
Obligations
- Must be taken consecutively.
- Inform employer in time.
- Forward UWV decision to employer.
Practical Examples for Westland
Example 1: Father Pieter from 's-Gravenzande (40 hours/week) welcomes his child on 1 September 2023. He takes WIEG leave from 2 January to 26 February 2024. With a daily wage of € 200, he receives 45 days x € 140 (70%), totaling € 6,300 gross. Employer may top up.
Example 2: Mother Sophie from Poeldijk works 24 hours/week and follows maternity leave with 9 weeks of WIEG, scaling back to 50% hours.
Comparison with Other Types of Leave
| Scheme | Duration | Paid | For Whom | Takable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Leave | 1 week (5 days) | 100% salary by employer | Partner | Within 4 weeks of birth |
| WIEG Scheme | 9 weeks | 70% UWV (max daily wage) | Both parents | Within 1 year |
| Parental Leave | 26 weeks per parent | Unpaid | Both parents | Until child is 8 |
| Adoption Leave | 6 weeks | 100% UWV | Both parents | Within 1 year of adoption |
Applying for WIEG Leave Step by Step
- Notify employer (at least 4 weeks in advance).
- Apply for benefit on UWV.nl using DigiD (ideally 8 weeks ahead).
- Send UWV decision to employer.
- Enjoy leave and weekly benefit.
Perhaps Also of Interest
Read more about Paid Parental Leave (WIEG), Maternity Leave or Birth Leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WIEG in Westland
Can I spread out WIEG weeks?
No, must be taken consecutively, but part-time (up to 50%) is possible.
What if the employer refuses leave?
Not permitted if notified in time. Contact Westland District Court, Netherlands Labour Authority or Westland Legal Aid Desk for assistance.
WIEG for adoption?
No, only for biological birth. Adoption leave is separate.
Topping up pay?
Not mandatory, but check collective agreement or contract. Municipality of Westland provides info via local channels.
Tips for Parents in Westland
- Consult with your employer early to avoid conflicts.
- Contact Westland Legal Aid Desk for free advice.
- Check with Municipality of Westland for local support for young families.