Centres for research on returning to work

Forte funds three research centers that together aim to strengthen the knowledge on how people on sick leave can receive better support in returning to work.

The centers conduct interdisciplinary research that integrates knowledge about individuals’ health and work ability with studies of workplaces, healthcare interventions, and the structural conditions that shape the return‑to‑work process.

By combining clinical studies, workplace‑based interventions, and analyses of policy and coordination, the centers develop and evaluate new approaches that can help reduce long-term sickness absence. The work is carried out in close collaboration with people on sick leave, healthcare professionals, employers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to ensure relevance and societal benefit.

Together, the centers build a knowledge base that can strengthen organizations’ capacity to prevent ill health, support return to work, and promote a more sustainable working life.

The Centers for Return to Work are funded by Forte’s national programme for mental health, but have strong links to the national programme for work‑life research.

Research centres within the field

• RELATE – Research centre for Return-to-Work in Later Stages of Working Life External link. Linköping University
• Center for Return-to-Work Studies in Primary Care - UGot ReWork External link.
  University of Gothenburg
• Stockholm Center for Return to Work External link.
  Karolinska Institutet