Background: One in four Norwegians has a musculoskeletal disorder, and many are in practice excluded from education and the workforce. In addition to this, many also fear disclosure. Over the years, the Norwegian Rheumatism Association (NRF) has seen an employer knowledge gap; many tend not to accommodate or believe it is too difficult to adjust. In addition, there are system barriers within the Norwegian Labour Market and Welfare Administration (NAV). The consequences are serious both for individuals and for society: Individuals are kept outside of the workforce, and society loses needed labour & important expertise. NRF wanted to increase the knowledge of both employers and decision makers by simplifying solutions.

Objectives: The overall objective was to increase the number of chronically ill people in full or partial employment by influencing decision-makers and employers.

The key arguments were that workplace adaptation is an investment, not a cost, and that people with chronic illnesses are a resorce in society, not a burden.

NRF aimed to increase the understanding of what is needed to be able to accommodate special needs

Methods: We used a combination of different methods and formats, which formed a comprehensive campaign. It focused on advocacy for equality, inclusion and accommodation, by ensuring employers easily can implement measures to include people with chronic deseases in the work force and engaging in the national debate on reducing sick leave in Norway. This included:

• A package of facts, stories, and examples shows that both individuals and society benefit from more adjustments

• Physical meetings with key players, politicians and decision makers followed by media outreach

• Input on the subject in documents and hearings

• Media coverage

• Development of projects and courses providing tools for young adults and employers

Through this, we advocated for greater flexibility in working life (flexitime, remote work, and adapted workplaces), faster processes for employer reimbursement of sick pay for chronically ill employees, and better access to medication and rehabilitation services.

We developed a practical toolbox for employers, along with a brochure. It contains 9 concrete tools to exemplify needs:

• Adjustable workstation – The body isn’t always at its best

• Parking space – Long commutes can be tough

• Rest area – A place to recharge during the day

• Quiet workspace – Option to close the door when needed

• Partial tasks on bad days – Do something, not everything

• Exercise breaks – Stretching and movement during work

• Flexible hours and home office when needed

During the campaign, there were meetings with all key stakeholders: The Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion, Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise and other employers’ organisations, the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions and other labour organisations, the Norwegian Welfare and Labour Administration, as well as different directorates with health and labour. They all got a toolbox to keep.

Results: Enhanced Knowledge: Representatives from the bodies listed above reported a clearer understanding of challenges and needs

Increased Engagement: Many asked for follow-up meetings and extended invitations to conferences.

Empowered Advocacy: Attendees felt more equipped to advocate for themselves and their communities using the information gained.

Media interest: Coverage in the main national news.

Positive Feedback on Format: The practical toolbox was valued, as well as the focus on solutions.

Conclusions: The strong focus on practical and simple solutions proved effective. The concrete approach opened for constructive dialogues with employers and decision makers. The campaign illustrates how facts combined with visible tools and practical suggestions may open doors and build trust. The increased insight will be built into the next steps for the campaign by using more research results linked to the use of sick leave and permanent disability benefits, and creating a stronger, nationwide media outreach.

The toolbox:

REFERENCES: NIL.

Acknowledgments: NIL.

Disclosure of Interests: Ingeborg Dybvig Abbvie, UCB, Johnson & Johnson, Ann Kristin Bakke Abbvie, UCB, Johnson & Johnson.