Labour Market Participation of persons with Spinal Cord Injury

Return to paid work (RTW) is regarded as one of the most important components of reintegration in society following spinal cord injury (SCI). RTW is also assumed to be of central importance to a person’s self-realization and self-esteem. It may also have positive effects on social participation as well as on a person’s health and economic well being. But also for the society, the labour market participation (LMP) of persons with a disability is advantageous in terms of reduced social spending and gains in tax revenues.

In Switzerland we found a relative high rate of working persons with SCI compared to other countries. However, there is little research to identify barriers and outcomes of RTW for persons with SCI.

Therefore the overall objective of this PhD project is to examine the LMP of persons with SCI in Switzerland and its determinants and consequences on the micro-, meso-, and macro-level.

Research questions:

- How many persons with SCI living in Switzerland are in paid employment?

- Which are the determinants and consequences of LMP for persons with SCI living in Switzerland?

- Which are the incentives and disincentives to work for person with a disability?

- Have welfare systems, disability pension procedures and access an influence on the LMP of persons with SCI?