Caring for a loved one and working at the same time: what are your rights as a caregiver in the workplace? Combining informal care with work can be tough. Fortunately, there are various regulations in the Netherlands that support you as an employee. Here you can read all about your rights, how to apply for care leave, and what the role of your collective labor agreement is in this.
Your rights as an informal caregiver employee
As a caregiver, you are entitled to legal regulations that can reduce your workload. One of the most important rights is the right to care leave. This is intended to temporarily work less or take leave when a loved one needs care. There are two types of care leave:
- Short-term care leave
You can take this leave if you have to care for a sick family member. Per year, you may take a maximum of twice the number of hours you work per week as care leave. For example, if you work 36 hours per week, you are entitled to 72 hours of short-term care leave per year. You will receive at least 70% of your salary for this. - Long-term care leave
If the care lasts longer, you can apply for long-term care leave. This leave entitles you to a maximum of six times your weekly working hours in a period of twelve months. Please note that long-term care leave is usually unpaid.
Both forms of care leave only apply if you are a caregiver for a partner, child, parent or someone else in your immediate environment. Always check your collective labor agreement or contract, because some employers offer additional benefits such as fully paid leave.
How do you apply for care leave?
Applying for care leave is relatively simple, but it is important to discuss this thoroughly with your employer:
- Mention
In the case of short-term care leave, you inform your employer as soon as possible that you want to take leave. This can be done in writing or verbally. Explain why you need the leave. Long-term care leave must be requested in writing at least two weeks before the intended start date. - Employer must cooperate
Your employer may only refuse your application if your absence causes a serious disruption to business operations. In practice, care leave is rarely refused. - Declaration on request
Sometimes your employer may ask for a medical certificate or other supporting documents to substantiate the leave.
The role of the collective labor agreement in informal care
Many collective labor agreements contain specific agreements on informal care and care leave. It is possible that your collective labor agreement:
- Offers extra care days
In addition to the statutory leave scheme, collective labour agreements may include additional leave days for informal care. - Full payment arranged
Some collective labor agreements guarantee that you will continue to receive 100% of your salary during short-term care leave. - Allows flexible working arrangements
Consider working from home, flexible working hours or adjusting your work schedule to better combine care and work.
So check carefully what is stated in your collective labor agreement. Also ask your HR department or union for help if you are not sure what your rights are.
Tips for caregivers in the workplace
- Communicate openly with your employer
Be transparent about your situation. Together you can look for solutions that work for both parties. - Make use of support services
There are various agencies, such as the Caregiver Support Center, where you can get help and advice. - Keep an eye on your work-life balance
Informal care can be emotionally and physically demanding. Make sure you have enough rest and ask for help if it becomes too much.
Let De Unie help you as a Expat in the Netherlands
Trade union De Unie is ready for you
Do you need help discussing informal care with your employer? Or are you having trouble applying for care leave? De Unie supports you with tailored advice and legal assistance. Together we ensure that you as a caregiver get what you are entitled to. Become a member today De Unie and stand stronger in your shoes. Call our Service Center on 0345-851963 on weekdays between 8:30 and 17:00 or email sc@unie.nl for personal advice.
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