WSS - The Work-ability Support Scale

Abstract

WSS is a measure designed to assess an individual's ability to work and support needs in the context of their normal working environment following the onset of acquired disability. WSS is also used to support decision-making with regard to vocational rehabilitation.

It is designed to be used both for people actually in work, or as a planning tool for those considering returning to work.

The tool has 16 items across three domains of work functioning:

-Physical / Environment -Thinking and communicating -Social / Behavioural

Scores range from 1 for constant support, to 7 for independence. There are also an additional 7 items related to contextual factors outside the workplace that could affect work functioning.

(N.B. This measure is in the process of being updated)