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Case study highlights improvements in work identity and design in sheltered workshops for mental health conditions, suggesting pathways for better support.
Background Sheltered workshops remain a common form of employment for individuals with mental health conditions in Switzerland. As there are currently no national requirements governing their design, it is crucial to examine how sheltered workshops can be improved to better meet the specific needs of this population. Objective This study aimed to explore the work experiences and conditions in sheltered workshops that contribute to the development of a positive work identity among individuals with mental health conditions. Method Two group discussions (n = 10) were conducted in a sheltered workshop in Switzerland. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results The analysis revealed three main themes central to promoting identity-enhancing work experiences: (1) Cultivating an egalitarian work environment that emphasizes the absence of stigma and actively promotes equality; (2) Enhancing motivational work design characteristics, with a focus on skill development and autonomy; and (3) Providing meaningful work through products with societal impact. Conclusion This study highlights critical factors related to work culture, work design, and work products that facilitate a positive work identity for individuals with mental health conditions in sheltered workshops. These recommendations help improve sheltered workshops to better support personal recovery and labor market reintegration.
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Germann et al. (2025) studied this question.
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