9 ways to create a supportive return to work environment
Work and non-work related injuries and illnesses can have a catastrophic impact on workers. It doesn’t always seem like that, but being able to work, and work unhindered, has enormous impacts on our health and wellbeing.
As much as we joke about winning the lottery and never reporting to work again, being able to physically and mentally contribute to society, to perform tasks that give us a meaningful sense of self, and (unless we actually did win Lotto), to secure a financial futures for ourselves and our families – work is intricately and deeply intertwined with our health.
Most workplaces, once they become sizeable enough, have a return to work program (also called a workplace rehabilitation program or injury management program depending on the state or territory in which your business operates). It’s our view that all workplaces should have access to workplace rehab programs (one of the core reasons we priced our amazing programs so cheaply), because the evidence is there – if one of your crew becomes unwell or injured, it is so important to support them as best you can in returning to their full hours and duties as safely and quickly as you can.
Why? Because the stats don’t lie:
- If your worker is not back at work in less than 30 days, then chances of them fully returning to work go out the door. Forever.
Whether you have a fancy workplace rehab program with dedicated teams, or you’re a tiny outfit of just 3 working from a home garage, the principles of creating a supportive environment are the same.
- Effective Communication. Maintain open and supportive lines of communication with injured or ill workers throughout their rehabilitation journey. Regular check-ins, whether in person or via virtual meetings, shows your work colleague that they are cared for and are supported. It also helps to keep them informed about any changes that may be occurring at work, and makes them still feel a valued part of your work community. Simple things like good communication are often the most effective.
- Collaborative Goal Setting. Work with your affected worker, in conjunction with other relevant stakeholders, to establish clear, time measured and achievable return to work goals. These goals should be tailored to the individual's capabilities and medical recommendations, and should foster a sense of empowerment and motivation. No matter how small the progress, every step is a right direction to help the worker build normality into their life again.
- Foster a Positive Work Culture. If you can’t get your workplace culture right, effective return to work programs will never happen. Workers simply won’t want to come to work. Set the tone for a supportive work environment by promoting a culture of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. You’re a team and a family, not a silo. Encourage team members to offer support and assistance to their injured colleague, and foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie in all that you do.
- Address Barriers. Identify and address any barriers that may impede the successful return to work outcomes. This could include physical barriers such as accessibility issues or psychological barriers such as fear of re-injury or stigma. Work with external occupational health providers where necessary to create a safe and achievable return to work program.
- Provide Training and Resources. If performing modified duties, ensure your injured worker receives any necessary training or resources to perform their allocated tasks safely and effectively. This may include additional skills training, ergonomic assessments, or access to assistive devices where necessary.
- Flexible Work Arrangements. Where possible, offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate the needs of your injured worker. This might include modified hours, remote work options, or temporary job modifications to facilitate a gradual return to full duties.
- Monitor Progress. Regularly review the progress of your injured worker's rehabilitation plan and adjust as necessary. Monitor for any signs of physical or psychological strain and provide additional support or accommodations as needed.
- Celebrate Achievements. Acknowledge and celebrate milestones achieved during the return to work process. Whether it's reaching a certain level of physical recovery or successfully completing a training program, recognition of accomplishments boosts morale and reinforces the value of the rehabilitation efforts.
- Advocate for Support Services. Be an advocate for your injured worker. Help them navigate the support services available to them both within the workplace and in the broader community. This may include access to healthcare professionals, rehabilitation services, or financial assistance programs.
We all play a role in creating a supportive and effective return to work environment. What may seem small – a supportive comment, the provision of a more comfortable chair, or even flexible work hours to fit in with therapies, can have an enormous impact on your worker. They too will share their experience of workplace rehabilitation with other employees creating a snowball effect. No matter how big or small your workplace is, create an environment that values the presence and contribution of all workers, including those dealing with medical challenges, whether work related or not. Investing in effective workplace rehabilitation not only benefits the individual worker but also promotes productivity, morale, and overall organisational success.
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