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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ช Belgium /Economy & Trade

4 in 10 companies struggle with adapted work for long-term sick; waste firm Remondis succeeds in Reet

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Documents & data Context piece
  • Four in 10 Belgian companies struggle to offer adapted work for long-term sick employees, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
  • A survey by Mensura, Belgium's largest prevention service, found this difficulty across 500 businesses.
  • Waste management company Remondis in Reet successfully implements adapted work, with a sales employee currently working 50% after cancer treatment.

Many Belgian companies are finding it difficult to accommodate employees returning to work after long-term illness. A recent survey by Mensura, the country's largest prevention service, revealed that four out of ten businesses struggle to offer adapted work arrangements for these employees. The challenge is particularly pronounced among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The study, which polled around 500 companies, highlights a significant gap in support for workers who have been absent due to sickness. This situation can create barriers for employees seeking to reintegrate into the workforce, potentially impacting their recovery and financial stability.

For 4 out of 10 companies in our country, adapted work for people who have been absent for a long time due to illness is not possible.

โ€” Mensura SurveyThis quote summarizes the key finding of the Mensura survey regarding the challenges companies face in providing adapted work.

However, some companies are demonstrating that adapted work is achievable. Waste management firm Remondis, based in Reet, is cited as a positive example. The company has successfully implemented flexible work arrangements for its staff. For instance, a sales employee named Dirk, who battled cancer, is currently working a 50% schedule. His job responsibilities have also been modified to suit his current capacity, showcasing a practical approach to supporting employees through health challenges.

Currently working 50 percent. His job content has also been adjusted.

โ€” Dirk, sales employee at RemondisThis quote illustrates the successful implementation of adapted work at Remondis, detailing the specific arrangement for an employee returning after cancer treatment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.