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Benefits of Participation

The opportunity to present your research to an expert diverse audience from across the world

The chance to exchange ideas with international professionals and experts in your field of work.

Theme Details

1.  Creating a Culture of Accommodation

This area of work is constantly changing, the principles, practices, and organisational shifts necessary to foster inclusive environments where diverse needs are recognised and supported. The work emphasises that accommodation is not merely a compliance requirement but a proactive cultural commitment to equity, dignity, and belonging. Abstracts could include:

  • The effects of legislation within work areas.
  • The awareness of society and rights of individuals
  • Examples of “Best Practice”
  • What could be done better

 

2.  Brain Health (including Neurodiversity) and the Issues associated with work

In the workplace, brain health is increasingly recognised as a critical factor in employee performance, satisfaction, and retention. However, many work environments still fail to accommodate neurodiverse individuals or support mental well-being effectively. High-pressure settings, lack of flexibility, poor communication, and limited understanding of cognitive differences can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and burnout. Neurodiverse employees may face challenges with sensory overload, rigid schedules, or social expectations, which can hinder their ability to thrive. Moreover, stigma and lack of awareness often lead to exclusion or underutilisation of unique talents. Abstracts could include:

  • Examples of inclusive policies and procedures that have promoted “brain health at work”
  • How dialogue around disclosure can assist in creating a “psychologically safe” workplace
  • Thinking styles that allow creativity and resilience in a return-to-work setting.

 

3.  Developments in Health and Disability Management

  • Change is rapid with health professionals and disability management professionals increasingly working together delivering a positive impact on the way organisations manage their absence.
  • AI is demonstrating a new emerging world of opportunities for new skills or enhancing the skills of those already working in the area.  Abstracts could include:
  • Sustainable new approaches to Disability Management including AI
  • Flexible approaches to supporting individuals in the ever-changing world of disability management
  • Developing systems that allow cross boundary working allowing better outcomes for individuals

 

4.  Workplace Early Intervention and Mental Health Support (what works for whom)

  • Early intervention in workplace mental health is not just a matter of wellbeing—it is a matter of productivity, equity, and sustainability. Workplace mental health strategies must be proactive, personalised, and inclusive.
  • Early intervention is most effective when organisations commit to listening, adapting, and investing in the wellbeing of their people. Abstracts could include:
  • How are organisations normalising conversations about mental health
  • Examples of solutions that include tailored adjustments rather than a one size fits all approach.
  • The on-going effect of pandemic with economic inactive populations

 

Calls for Abstracts

 

We invite all interested parties to submit abstracts for presentation at the IFDM 2026 Conference.

The theme of the conference is “Empowering Ideas, Shaping Futures” where we will bring together global leaders in Disability Management, Occupational Health, RTW, Employability and Brain Health.

Submission Themes

The four themes around which workshops and plenary sessions will be developed are:

  1. Creating a Culture of Accommodation
  2. Brain Health (including Neurodiversity) and the Issues associated with work
  3. Developments in Health and Disability Management
  4. Workplace Early Intervention and Mental Health Support (what works for whom)

Submission Guidelines

  • Abstracts should be submitted by emailing info@ifdm2026.com with title “Abstract Submission”.
  • The abstract should not exceed 300 words.
  • Each submission should include a title, list of authors, name of presenter(s) and contact information.
  • Clearly state the objective, methodology, results, and conclusions of the research.
  • Abstracts should not contain references, tables, or figures.
  • Abstracts need to be identified if suitable as an oral presentation for workshop or for a poster exhibition.

 

Key Dates

Abstract Submission Deadline Midnight 28th February 2026

Notification of Acceptance Midnight 27th March 2026

How to Submit

Submit your abstract by e-mail to conference@ifdm2026.com by 28th February 2026

Any questions please e-mail conference@ifdm2026.com or graham@wellworkingmatters.co.uk