Worklife is a website for people with long-term health conditions who want to stay in work, for their employers and for health professionals.
Dr Dhia Chandraratna, Head of International Research at Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF), says, "Worklife should prove a useful resource for people with MS, their employers, and for MS societies and health professionals.
"While the information on rights, benefits, and the law are specific to the UK, much of the information is relevant to anyone dealing with a fluctuating chronic health condition, wherever they live."
Work from the Australian MS Longitudinal Study (AMSLS) which tracks a sixth of Australians with MS has previously shown that 64% of Australians with MS have a lower rate of workforce participation than other chronic disease groups. Read more here.
In July 2010, the AMSLS will begin a new study, the National MS Employment Survey, and will begin collecting annual statistics on employment hours, conditions and employment changes.
It will also ask about disability and employment difficulties. People diagnosed with MS, aged 18-65 who are in current paid employment are invited to complete the survey.
Results from the National MS Employment Survey will significantly add to the ongoing knowledge base and fine-tuning of employment programs for People with MS by MS Societies and other agencies.
To join the study, call Dr Rex Simmons at Canberra Hospital on 02 6244 4228.
