Challenges and solutions in employing people with partial work ability

At Spring House, we believe that even if a person faces challenges such as illness, disability, or another limitation, everyone has the potential to work when the right job and support are found. The opportunity to participate in working life is a cornerstone of equality for every capable and motivated individual.

Spring House has been involved in several projects that promote the employment and work participation of people with partial work ability. Each year, we support hundreds of individuals in finding and maintaining suitable employment.

What are the key factors in employing people with partial work ability? And where could Finland improve?

Finding solutions early makes a difference

Vocational rehabilitation is one of Finland’s best social security measures, especially when reduced work ability is recognized early. Early intervention enables a faster return to work in a profession that matches an individual’s health and abilities. However, not everyone benefits from rehabilitation immediately, as many still move directly toward disability pension.

Applying for a disability pension can take years and often involves lengthy appeal processes. Continuous medical assessments and new symptoms can sustain hope for a pension decision, which may prolong uncertainty and complicate financial stability.

Do these appeal processes take too long? Could faster decision-making help more people return to work sooner? And could shortening processing times also reduce social security costs?

Individual support enables access to work

The 'Sopivaa työtä kaikille (Suitable Work for All)' project by Spring House and the Finnish Association of People with Physical Disabilities (Invalidiliitto) has shown that clients with physical disabilities benefit significantly from individually tailored employment support. The results speak for themselves: more than 40% of participants, many of whom had previously been on full disability pension, found a job suited to their health and abilities.

The key was individualized coaching that addressed not only work ability but also broader barriers to employment..

IPS-model improves success through workplace support

Support at the early stages of employment is often the weak point of many service models, even though it is critical to long-term success. The IPS model (Individual Placement and Support), piloted by Spring House and the pension insurance company Varma, responds to this need by providing clients with personalized, hands-on support directly in the workplace.

The IPS model developed by Spring House and Varma has proven particularly effective in supporting people with partial work ability. At its core are tailored assistance and practical, ongoing support in real work settings. The pilot results are impressive: 60% of participants found employment, which is a significantly higher success rate than comparison groups.

Interested in vocational rehabilitation services? Feel free to contact us and let’s talk more!