Workplace Rehabilitation Programmes RTW and SAW

Workplace rehabilitation programmes are designed to help injured people safely return to employment after an injury. Within the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) system, two common workplace rehabilitation approaches are Return to Work (RTW) and Stay at Work (SAW) programmes.

These programmes aim to support injured workers by helping them either remain connected to their current job during recovery or gradually return to work after a period of absence.

Workplace rehabilitation is an important part of ACC’s broader vocational rehabilitation framework and is usually managed through the claimant’s Individual Rehabilitation Plan.

Stay at Work (SAW)

Stay at Work programmes are used when an injured person is still able to work in some capacity despite their injury.

The goal of SAW is to help the person remain in employment while their recovery continues. This may involve temporarily modifying the type of work performed, reducing hours, or adjusting workplace tasks to suit the person’s current abilities.

Examples of SAW support may include modified duties, lighter work tasks, reduced physical demands, or flexible working hours while the injury heals.

Remaining connected to work during recovery can help maintain routine, financial stability, and workplace relationships.