Perspectives on work (re)entry for persons with disabilities: Implications for clinicians

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Westmorland, Muriel G. | Williams, Renee | Strong, Susan | Arnold, Emmy

Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Note: [] MHSc., Room 450, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1400 Main St. West, Hamilton L8S 1C7, Ontario, Canada. E-mail: westmorl@mcmaster.ca

Abstract: Despite the prevalence of government funding to support employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, real jobs for this population still appear to be elusive. McMaster University researchers examined how six stakeholder groups defined workplace (re)entry success for persons with disabilities. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with representation from employers, unions, persons with disabilities, co-workers, supervisors and human resource departments. Participants numbered 86 and the average age was 42. Participant comments provided the researchers with rich data related to the study objectives. Success was perceived as not only a match between the employee and the job but also a win-win for employer and employer, a uniquely defined set of circumstances based on the specific individual and their environment as well as respect for the individual's dignity and quality of life. This article discusses the study and its outcomes and highlights implications for clinicians.

Journal: Work, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 29-40, 2002