Sickness Benefits Act: voluntary dismissal in Westland
**Voluntary dismissal during the Sickness Benefits Act** in the Westland region means that, while you are ill and receiving a Sickness Benefits payment, you choose to terminate your employment contract yourself. Reasons can vary from conflicts with employers in the greenhouse horticulture sector, personal choices, or a new opportunity. For residents of Westland, it is crucial to understand how this affects your UWV benefit. This article provides legal advice tailored to Den Haag District Court (district) and assistance via Westland Legal Advice Office.
Why voluntary dismissal during illness in Westland?
In Westland, known for its horticultural businesses, many employees report sick due to physical strain. Termination by employee during illness can lead to discussions about your Sickness Benefits rights. The Sickness Benefits Act compensates 70% of your salary (with maximum) if you cannot work due to illness and no longer receive salary.
Legal frameworks for Westland
Key legislation:
- Sickness Benefits Act (ZW): Article 10 ZW determines entitlement to benefit; see Den Haag District Court for cases.
- Civil Code Book 7: Articles 7:667-7:675 CC on termination by employee.
- WIA: Relevant for long-term illness after the Sickness Benefits period.
- Sickness Benefits Implementation Decree: Specific conditions for benefit after dismissal.
Entitlement to Sickness Benefits after voluntary dismissal in Westland
UWV assesses whether the illness is independent of the dismissal. For Westland residents: report illness and dismissal to UWV and employer. Meet the working hours condition (min. 26 weeks in 12 months for illness).
Conditions overview
| Condition | Explanation Westland |
|---|---|
| You are unfit for work | Assessment by occupational physician; many cases in horticulture due to back complaints. |
| Sufficient employment history | Min. 26 weeks work in 12 months; seasonal work counts. |
| Illness independent | Not dismissal as 'way out' of illness; UWV checks. |
| Timely reporting | Report immediately to employer and UWV; contact Westland Legal Advice Office for help. |
Practical examples Westland
Example 1: Horticulture employee with conflict
An employee in a Westland greenhouse company is ill (rheumatism) and receives Sickness Benefits. Due to a quarrel with the foreman, he resigns. UWV approves the benefit because the illness started earlier. Tip: Document illness with a doctor's certificate.
Example 2: Personal relocation
You live in Monster (Westland), ill due to surgery, and decide to move. After termination, you retain Sickness Benefits provided the illness is not caused by the dismissal. Den Haag District Court confirms in similar cases.
What now? Step-by-step plan for Westland
- Report illness to employer and apply for Sickness Benefits at UWV.
- Submit resignation with notice period (CC art. 7:672).
- Document medical situation with GP/occupational physician.
- Call Westland Legal Advice Office for free advice: [local contact details].
- In case of objection: procedure at Den Haag District Court, subdistrict sector.
Note: Own fault can result in a sanction (no benefit for 4 weeks). Seek help from Westland Legal Advice Office for your personal situation.