Sickness Benefits Recovery Obligation in Leiden: obligations and rights
The **recovery obligation** under the **Sickness Benefits Act (ZW)** applies to everyone in Leiden and surrounding areas who receives a benefit because they are sick without an employer. You must actively cooperate with your **doctor** and the **UWV** to recover quickly and return to work. Failure to comply may lead to restriction or termination of your benefit. This article discusses the rules, legal basis, your rights and obligations, plus local assistance agencies such as the **District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location** and the **Legal Aid Office Leiden, Stationsweg 46**.
What does the recovery obligation entail under the Sickness Benefits Act in Leiden?
This **legal obligation** applies to recipients of a **Sickness Benefits** in the Leiden region. The benefit compensates your income in case of illness and incapacity for work, but requires active effort for recovery. You are obliged to:
- Follow the instructions of your **general practitioner** or specialist, such as taking medication, attending therapy or adjusting lifestyle.
- Participate in **reintegration** via UWV programs, such as training or trial placements.
- Cooperate with the **UWV office** in your region for recovery plans.
- Cooperate with assessments by a **UWV doctor**, including appointments in Leiden or nearby locations.
Regulated in the **Sickness Benefits Act** and associated **Decree**, this prevents long-term absence from the labour market. In case of violation, the UWV may intervene. In Leiden, the **District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location** handles objections thereto.
Legal basis recovery obligation Sickness Benefits Act
Key legislation:
- Sickness Benefits Act (ZW): Article 14 establishes the recovery obligation for benefit recipients.
- Sickness Benefits Act Decree: Specifies UWV assessments and sanctions.
- Work and Care Act (WWZ): Relevant for long-term illness and reintegration after 2 years.
The **UWV** monitors compliance and may impose sanctions. In case of disputes in Leiden: contact the **Legal Aid Office Leiden, Stationsweg 46** for free advice.
Examples recovery obligation in practice Leiden
Practice cases from the region:
Example 1: Rejecting reintegration trajectory
Situation: UWV offers a **reintegration trajectory** in Leiden, such as job application training. Obligation: Participation is mandatory, unless medically advised against by your doctor. Consequence: Refusal leads to **benefit reduction** or termination.
Example 2: Failing to appear for UWV doctor
Situation: Assessment scheduled with **UWV doctor** in Leiden. Obligation: Mandatory attendance. Consequence: Sanction for unjustified absence.
Example 3: Ignoring medication
Situation: Doctor prescribes treatment for recovery. Obligation: Follow the prescription. Consequence: UWV may suspend benefit upon proof of non-compliance.
What to do in case of sanctions in Leiden?
File an objection with UWV within 4 weeks. No success? Hearing at **District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location**. Free assistance: **Legal Aid Office Leiden, Stationsweg 46**. They assist with objection letters and procedures.
Your rights under the recovery obligation
You are entitled to:
- Medically confidential treatment by UWV doctor.
- Reasonable adjustments if recovery is not possible.
- Assistance with reintegration via UWV.