Bridging the Gap: Supporting a Healthy Return to Work

by | Feb 4, 2026

January often signals a return to routine after a well-earned break. For others — particularly those returning after long term absence or navigating work alongside mental health challenges — the transition back can feel daunting and overwhelming. At Wellbeing Therapy Solutions, our Work Well Services are designed to bridge the gap between sickness absence and full participation at work. Our aim is simple: to support employees to return safely, confidently, and sustainably, while helping employers retain and support their valuable workforce.

Supporting Employers, Empowering Employees

A successful return to work benefits everyone and increases overall profitability. By providing providing tailored, collaborative, practical support that aligns individual needs with job demands, our support can be the difference between a successful return and ongoing absence.

Our comprehensive assessments consider:

  • The needs and strengths of the employee
  • The requirements of the role
  • The work environment and organisational factors
  • Practical, achievable workplace adjustments

We provide clear, evidence-based recommendations that help employers meet their employment law obligations, while enabling employees to perform at their best.

Why Workplace Adjustments Matter

Many employers recognise and champion their workforce. When dedicated staff face challenges that affect their ability to stay in work, this can have a wider impact on overall productivity. Research consistently shows that appropriate workplace adjustments:

  • Improve productivity and performance
  • Support continuity of work
  • Boost morale and engagement
  • Reduce sickness absence
  • Save costs by avoiding lengthy recruitment processes

Recruitment is costly, time-consuming, and disruptive and new staff often require ongoing upskilling. Supporting existing staff isn’t just the ethical choice — it’s a smart, strategic investment in the business.

When supporting employees we consistently find that adjustments introduced to support one individual have a positive ripple effect, improving wellbeing, efficiency, and workplace culture across the whole team.

Expertise in Mental Health and Neurodiversity

As Occupational Therapists specialising in mental health, we are uniquely placed to take a holistic view of the individual and their work role. Our assessments explore:

  • Mental health symptoms
  • Neurodiversity
  • Strengths, challenges, and coping strategies
  • Environmental and organisational factors within the workplace

We also assess the workplace itself, offering practical guidance to employers on creating inclusive, supportive environments where people can thrive.

Diagnoses of mental health conditions and neurodiversity are increasing. At WTS we feel this is a reminder that the needs within the workforce are evolving, and that thoughtful, proactive support can make a meaningful difference. This is echoed in the UK Government’s Keep Britain Working review (November 2025), which highlights the importance of inclusion and support in the workplace.

We also recognise that this can leave many employers and line managers unsure about what to do, how to respond, or where to start. Navigating these situations can feel complex — but with our guidance and support, businesses can create environments where both their people and their organisation can thrive.

Encouraging Disclosure and Open Conversations

We aim to help employees feel safe and confident to disclose their needs. With the right support in place, disclosure leads to better understanding, appropriate adjustments, and improved outcomes for everyone involved.

For example, a reasonable adjustment such as regular screen breaks may be recommended. While this may support one individual, it also encourages movement, reduces physical strain, and creates moments to pause and refocus — benefits that extend to the wider team.

Let’s Bridge the Gap Together

Whether you are an employer seeking to retain skilled staff or an employee needing support to return to work, Wellbeing Therapy Solutions is here to help.

By bridging the gap between absence and full participation, we create healthier workplaces, stronger teams, and better outcomes for all.

Contact us today to discuss your Return to Work.

More Posts

Let’s try New Year, Same Me instead!

Let’s try New Year, Same Me instead!

It is that time of year when New Year is looming around the corner. In this post, I will be providing you with some perspective as to why New Year isn’t always a joyous occasion. In addition, I also talk about self-acceptance and provide a couple mindfulness practices...

read more
Sleeptember Review: Can a Sleep Diary Really Help?

Sleeptember Review: Can a Sleep Diary Really Help?

September is Sleeptember and when I saw the materials—a 4-week challenge designed to improve sleep through small, daily changes. It includes a sleep diary, weekly goals, and helpful resources to track your habits. I thought I would try it out for the month. First...

read more
Back-to-School Anxiety Advice for Parents

Back-to-School Anxiety Advice for Parents

The start of a new school year can bring lots of emotions in children and while many young people may feel excited and enthusiastic for the change, others may be feeling overwhelmed and anxious. A new classroom, new class teacher and new unfamiliar routines can be a...

read more
Managing Transitions

Managing Transitions

To everyone awaiting results — A Levels this week, GCSEs next — I want to start by wishing you the very best of luck. But more importantly, I want to remind you of something: You are more than your grades. In today’s hustle culture and high-pressure environment, it...

read more