Unlocking potential : A mixed methods study of how coordination teams contribute to improved wellbeing and work capacity

Abstract: This study aimed at examining if a strengths-based intervention implemented by two coordination teams in Surahammar and Hallstahammar has a positive effect on the wellbeing and work capacity of participants with complex needs such as mental and physical disabilities. As a direct result of citizens with complex needs having problems getting gainful employment the two teams were formed to help people who has not yet been helped by other previous interventions. Due to the studied group commonly facing several mental and physical disabilities the teams were constructed to use a strengths-based solutions-focused approach for their interventions. During a one-year intervention period the participants actively participated in strengths-based interventions consisting of solutions-focused activities, group activities, individual coaching and on-site job training. The research method used had a mixed methods design using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data were gathered with the sense of coherence questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. When measured, using the instruments, results showed that participants wellbeing as well as their work capacity increased. In the discussion it is suggested that further research is needed as a small sample size and participant dropout limit the possibility to generalize the findings to a broader context.