Your Path Back to Work with De Woensdag
We have helped almost 500 people return to work
Support for Employees Facing Long-Term Illness
Despite all your good intentions, here you are. You’ve always worked hard, and now you’re ill. And not just a little. You haven’t been able to do your job for quite some time. Perhaps a conflict with your employer has already started. It’s even possible that the cause lies partly in a conflict with your employer or colleagues.
We can help you!
Do you want to work but simply can’t right now? Then we may be willing to employ you. We do start with a selection interview — not based on résumés or paperwork, but on your work attitude and medical situation. We would like to become your new employer and are fully focused on your recovery and your path back to the labor market. We offer a fixed-term contract.
Yes, but I currently have a permanent contract?!
That’s true, but at the end of the “second-track” (het tweede spoor) process, you won’t anymore. Then the WIA awaits. And to be honest, if you can avoid that, you probably want to. We can explain in detail why making the move to De Woensdag can be a good choice for you. It’s not for everyone, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know.
Your current employer has to be willing to cooperate. We are happy to discuss this with them, as there are benefits for them as well. No secrets there.
Call or write to us. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no.
How De Woensdag Supports Your return to better work
- We employ long-term ill employees to provide a safe, supportive environment for recovery.
- Our focus is on your health, confidence, and preparation for your next work opportunity.
- The process begins with a selection interview based on your work attitude and medical situation.
- We provide guidance throughout the second-track process to prevent unnecessary stress or WIA complications.
- Our licensed coaches are experienced in navigating complex employment and medical situations.
Transparency and Clarity
We maintain complete transparency about contracts, second-track procedures, and your route to new employement. You will always know what to expect, including timelines, benefits, and obligations.
Compatibility Questionnaire
Use our questionnaire to see how your situation aligns with De Woensdag’s approach. This helps us provide personalized guidance and ensures the right fit.
Collaborations
Read Our
Client Stories
Discover how other employees and employers have successfully navigated long-term illness and reintegration with De Woensdag.
Why You Can Trust
De Woensdag
We hire long-term ill employees to provide stability and support, guided by licensed coaches with a 95%+ track record of successful return to work. Our approach prioritizes health, honesty, and respect — giving you a safe path back to work while protecting your rights and wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will happen when I do not find work?
Very few but some of our employees did not find new work before the end of the contract with de Woensdag. In that case it simply applying for social benefits (WW) at that time. We will help if needed.
What will be my work at de Woensdag?
At de Woensdag you will be tasked whatever fits best to your situation with first focus on full recovery. You will be supported in the best possible way to become fit and motivated to find your next workplace. This means we will work together to optimise your possibilities on the labour market. If a secondment is a way to do so, we can agree to that. If temporary parttime work (in-house or elsewhere) is an option, we will look at that. The approach is highly individual.
Will I be forced into work I do not like?
Simple answer. No!
What will be my income while working for de Woensdag?
The income at the Woensdag is according to the labour agreement with your previous (now still current) employer.
Will I still build-up a pension?
De Woensdag does not have a pension plan. Most pension providers have the option for you to continue your program for a year yourself. This is something we wiil help you with as it is very personal.
How do I meet with my personal host?
We work with professional certified coaches as hosts at de Woensdag. They will create a personal development plan with you. Our approach is based upon the individual needs but on average there will be minimum of monthly face to face or online contact.
Will I still be entitled for social benefits?
Yes, just like you are after at the end of your contract with your previous employer.
Why should I give up my indefinite contract for a temporary one?
Whereas an ill employee cannot be fired, after 104 weeks of illness (2 years) an employer is allowed to. This means in reality your indefinite contract is definite and ends after this 104 week mark. Your contract with de Woensdag will give you the exact same period to find something new but from a completely fresh start.
How will De Woensdag support me?
De woensdag works with experienced and certified coaches dedicated to you. They will work with you toward your successful return to a role you desire. The frequency and way of working will be entirely based on your situation.
What happens when I do not find a job after the 12 months?
In the odd case the 12 month is not enough to get back in a new role, the contract will end, applying for social security is the next step. We will help if necessary. (A situation we have only had to deal with twice in the 12 years we operate and the 450+ clients we worked with)
What is the benefit of joining de Woensdag over staying in my current job and get regular reintegration support
The good thing of being completely detached from you previous employer is that you no longer have to adhere to the pretty strict and energy consuming HR and ARBO processes your employer HAS to adhere to by law. You will be free to work towards your next new role with our full support. All potential stress and maybe even anger or disappointment can make room for rest and motivation.
How am I certain that de Woensdag will get me back to work?
In the end finding a job is something you have to do yourself. We can not do the application for you. What we WILL do is work with you to prepare for you to get ready. And to be completely transparent, it is to our benefit that you find a job as soon as possible. Rest assured, we will support you, stimulate you but never force you into something that does not suit you. We aim for happy faces with new jobs and happy new employers! And that works!
Got More Questions?
If you have additional questions or want to discuss your situation, fill out the form below. Our team will respond with guidance and next steps.
