Personal and social factors key for long-term return to work

The review evaluated the impact of personal and social factors on sustainable return to work after ill-health due to musculoskeletal disorders, such as joint and back pain. It also considered common mental health conditions, including stress, depression or anxiety. 

Researchers from UEA’s Norwich Business School and Uppsala University in Sweden found support from line managers or supervisors and co-workers provided the most consistent evidence for achieving sustainable return to work. 

Promoting a positive attitude and high self-efficacy – belief in employees’ capabilities to achieve a goal or outcome – were also key to good results.  

Lead author Abasiama Etuknwa, a researcher at UEA, said: “Promoting a culture of support at the workplace is essential, a culture that makes returning workers feel valued, worthy and not necessarily blamed for absence.” 

Co-author Kevin Daniels, professor of organisational behaviour at UEA, said there was a ‘big need’ for the study. “Previous studies have shown how poor-quality jobs can cause ill health. However, there is also strong evidence that good quality jobs, for example those that enable reasonable work-life balance, allow staff some say in how their work is done and have supportive managers, are an important component for a speedy recovery after ill health episodes and are generally beneficial for physical and mental health.” 

UEA recommends that return to work guidance should be updated to  outline the supportive role that line managers play. 

The review examined evidence from 79 previous studies between 1989 and 2017. It was published in the Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation’ on 15 February.