Does previous sickness absence affect work participation after vocational labour market training? A difference-in-differences propensity score matching approach.

backgroundReduced work ability is relatively common among job seekers and it can hinder future labour market attachment. A commonly used measure to increase employability is the use of active labour market programmes. While vocational labour market training (LMT) has been shown to be an effective way to increase work participation among job seekers, there is still uncertainty about how LMT works in different population groups, for example, among persons with a work disability history.

methodsWe used nationally representative Finnish register data on 16 062 LMT participants in 2008-2015 aged 25-59 with a history of sickness absence (SA) and propensity score matched participants without such history. For matching, we used information on sociodemographic and work-related factors. We used difference-in-differences analysis to investigate the differential changes in work participation before and after LMT between those with and those without SA history.

resultsHaving a history of SA was associated with a lower gain in work participation after LMT, but the magnitude varied by sex, employment history and follow-up time. In women, having a history of SA contributed to 3.9-6.2 percentage points smaller increase in work participation 1-3 years after LMT, depending on the employment history. In men, the corresponding numbers were 2.0-4.3 percentage points. The results were more pronounced if the SA was due to mental disorders.

conclusionsThe results indicate that work disability, especially due to mental disorders, can hamper work participation after LMT and should be considered when planning employment-enhancing measures for job seekers.