Facilitating factors for work return in unemployed with disabilities: A qualitative study

Abstract

Despite the fact that equal services are offered to all disabled jobseekers who apply for jobs through jobcentres, only a small number of them return to work while the others remain unemployed. The aim of this study was to explore which factors disabled jobseekers, who had managed to get a job experienced had been important for their work return. A qualitative research method, Grounded Theory, was chosen. Ten thematized in-depth interviews were conducted. The narratives reflected that a common feature in the informants was a strong worker identity. They emphasized the importance of remaining as an active jobseeker despite disability and unemployment. Measures offered by the jobcentres such as timing, individual support, and a period of adjusted work were experienced to be empowering and enhanced the ability to continue job seeking. In parallel with these empowering measures the informants expressed a process of personal development (reorientation). The reorientation included concepts such as “adjusting to disability” and “finding a new work identity”.

• adjustment
• occupational therapy
• needs assessment
• support
• vocational rehabilitation

Isaksson Mettävainio B, Ahlgren C. Facilitation factors for work return in unemployed with disabilities: a qualitative study.

Isaksson Mettävainio B, Ahlgren C. Facilitation factors for work return in unemployed with disabilities: a qualitative study.