We wanted to increase our understanding and support of this process. So, we undertook research last year to learn more. Our goal is to help you and your Clients ensure that an employee’s work return is successful and sustainable. We’re pleased to share these new insights and supports with you.

How we can help

In 2023, we partnered with Ipsos to survey both Canadian employees and employers about their return-to-work experiences. From the insights we gained, we’ve created the following resources. These can help employers support employees who have returned to work after a disability leave.

  • Our research report: Healthy returns. Supporting employees who have returned to work after a disability leave. The report reveals six key insights about the return-to-work process – including barriers to a successful return. Importantly, it highlights ways that employers can improve their processes to maximize return-to-work success.

  • Return-to-work toolkits: We created two return-to-work toolkits – one for employers, the other for employees. 

    The employer toolkit contains two videos and a handbook. The first video outlines best practices for people managers in creating and managing the return-to-work process. The second video highlights some key legal obligations related to returning employees. In addition, the toolkit contains a people managers’ handbook. This is an excellent guide for those directly involved in return-to-work events.

    The employee toolkit is a resource employers can share with employees returning from leave. It consists of one video and a handbook. These explain what employees can expect in terms of their return, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved. 

The materials are all available on our website. 

We encourage you to review these materials and share them with Clients. Through these insights and supports, you can help Clients promote and support more successful, sustainable returns to work after a disability leave. 

Questions? We’re here to help. 

Please contact your Sun Life Group Benefits representative.