There are several legal regulations that support you as a working family caregiver. But what forms of care leave are there, and when do they apply? We list the options for you:
1. Emergency leave: free in case of emergency
Emergency leave is designed for unexpected situations that you must respond to immediately. Consider a suddenly ill child, an emergency hospitalization or the death of a loved one. This leave lasts from a few hours to a few days. You report it to your employer and your salary is paid, unless otherwise provided for in the collective bargaining agreement. It is intended to provide immediate initial care.
2. Short-term care leave: for temporary help and care.
Do you need to temporarily care for a sick child, partner, parent, roommate, friend? Is there no one who can take over this task? Then you can take short-term care leave. The employer may ask about the content of your situation. You are entitled to a maximum of twice your weekly working hours per year. For example, if you work 24 hours per week, you are entitled to 48 hours of short-term care leave per year. During this leave, you will be paid at least 70% of your salary. Your employer may refuse the leave only if the company is in serious trouble because of your absence.
3. Long-term care leave: for long-term, intensive care.
When you need to intensively care for a loved one for an extended period of time, you can apply for long-term care leave. This leave is for care in the event of a life-threatening illness. You are entitled to a maximum of six times your weekly working hours per 12 months. So if you work 32 hours per week, you can take 192 hours of long-term care leave. During this leave, your employer is not obliged to continue paying your wages, unless otherwise agreed in the collective bargaining agreement. You must apply in writing to your employer at least two weeks in advance.
4. Flexible Working Act: adjustment of working hours and workplace
In addition to leave arrangements, as a caregiver you can also use the Flexible Working Act. This allows you to request your employer to adjust your working hours, workplace or number of hours. This gives you more space to combine work and care tasks. The law applies to employers with more than ten employees and you can submit a request after six months of employment. After a rejection, you may reapply after one year.
5. Additional arrangements through the collective bargaining agreement or employer
Some employers offer additional options, such as saving for leave, a personal budget or working from home. Check with your employer whether there are additional arrangements within your organization Want to know more or need help? Ask your question by phone 0162-748600 or email mantelzorg.oosterhout@surplus.nl You can also contact your HR department or manager for personal advice. An open, good conversation with your supervisor and colleagues will help to find good solutions.
