Return to work, accommodation and support
IWH has a long history of conducting research on practices, policies and processes that help workers sustainably return to work after an illness or an injury. This page pulls together IWH research and resources on employer supports, job accommodations and modifications, as well as other related issues such as disclosure of disability.
Featured
IWH Speaker Series
Using cannabis to manage symptoms of work-related injuries: Experiences of injured workers in Ontario
Published: February 24, 2026
At Work article
Inclusive employment strategies, resources showcased at symposium
Published: November 12, 2025
IWH in the media
Top ranked strategies to support young persons with disabilities at work
As we think about the impact of the future of work, it's crucial to consider that certain groups of workers may be disadvantaged. That's why a recent IWH project set out to gain an understanding of strategies that could be used to maximize inclusion for persons with disabilities in the future of work.
Published: Rehab & Community Care Medicine , October 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Understanding the employment landscape in people with systemic sclerosis
Published: Journal of Rheumatology, June 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Work-related suicide: evolving understandings of etiology & intervention
Published: American Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 2024
IWH in the media
Thriving while sick: mentorship platform helps chronically ill workers navigate workplace issues
In an article about an online platform that connects adults with chronic illnesses with mentors, freelance reporter Sanam Islam cites IWH research on workers' reluctance to disclose their chronic illnesses to access workplace support.
Published: The Globe and Mail, April 2024
Research Highlights
How do employment support programs impact the health of young adults with episodic disabilities?
The unpredictable and often invisible nature of episodic disabilities can make it challenging for workers to find and sustain employment while managing their fluctuating symptoms and work demands. For young adults navigating early career phases, these challenges may also have life-long impacts on their career progression and health. Researchers on an IWH study set out to investigate whether employment support programs for young adults with episodic disabilities may also impact their health.
Published: April 2024
Journal article
Journal article
The adequacy of workplace accommodation and the incidence of permanent employment separations after a disabling work injury or illness
Published: Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, March 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Workplace disclosure decisions of older workers wanting to remain employed: a qualitative study of factors considered when contemplating revealing or concealing support needs
Published: Work, Aging and Retirement, January 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Return-to-work experiences in Ontario policing: injured but not broken
Published: Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, January 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Impact of employment and income support interventions on the health of young adults with episodic disability: findings from a systematic review
Published: Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, January 2024
Journal article
Journal article
Understanding the unmet accommodation needs of people working with mental or cognitive conditions: the importance of gender, gendered work, and employment factors
Published: Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, January 2024