Workplace Inclusion Capacity:

Contribution to the Development of a Concept and a Research Field

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in collaboration between the employment system and companies to integrate individuals with reduced work capacity into the workforce. This has been facilitated through initiatives such as workplace internships and regular paid employment. This shift marks a partial departure from the traditional Danish labour market model. Historically, the employment system primarily focused on integrating individuals outside the labour market, while labour market actors concentrated on retaining employees at risk of job loss. Today, workplaces play a more prominent role in the inclusion of individuals with limited work capacity, highlighting the need for a deeper theoretical understanding of workplace inclusion capacity. In this article, which is based on a recently conducted research review, we develop a new concept and a theoretical model for what inclusion capacity is and how workplaces can increase their inclusion capacity. We also offer a perspective on how practical-oriented work inclusion can contribute to the development of a more inclusive labour market.