BRIDGING THE TRANSITION OF UNEMPLOYMENT – AN EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

Unemployment is a serious problem worldwide. Numerous studies give evidence that long-term unemployment has negative consequences for health. A literature review shows that until now there is no occupational therapy service... [ view full abstract ]

Unemployment is a serious problem worldwide. Numerous studies give evidence that long-term unemployment has negative consequences for health. A literature review shows that until now there is no occupational therapy service available to accompany clients who become unemployed.

The purpose of this project was to develop an occupational therapy program for persons in the transition of becoming unemployed with the aim of preventing negative consequences for health and to shorten or - if possible - avoid the phase of unemployment.

Based on the findings of a qualitative study and a literature review the needs of persons who are becoming unemployed were identified. These needs were analysed according to the nature of the problem and assigned to the different transition phases. Assessments and intervention strategies of occupational therapy and allied health professions were reviewed for applicability and new assessments and strategies were developed.

Four intervention modules were composed: a) counselling employers how to dismiss people in a fair way, b) counselling unemployed persons how to stay employable and healthy, c) supporting unemployed persons in (re)constructing an on-going narrative, d) supporting unemployed persons to apply for a job. Each module can be offered as a single intervention or in combination with others.

The program is suited to be implemented in private practice or in cooperation with job centres or employers and has the capacity to open up new working areas in the non-medical field.