Between Context and Experience: The Inclusion of People with Disabilities in the Workplace in Uruguay

This study analyzes the employment inclusion profiles of people with disabilities by linking the contextual factors of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) with the Quality of Life (QoL) model. Using a mixed-methods, descriptive, and exploratory approach, the study examines four cases of participants in the SUMA Program, an initiative of the Municipality of Montevideo aimed at designing customized technical solutions for workplace adaptation. Standardized instruments (WHODAS 2.0 for assessing functioning and disability severity, and MOS for perceived social support) and semi-structured interviews were administered. The results were analyzed through a joint operationalization of both models, which allowed for the construction of individual profiles and their visualization via spider charts. From the ICF Model, heterogeneous configurations of barriers and facilitators are identified, highlighting the central role of social supports and the persistent tensions linked to accessibility. From the QoL Model, imbalances between dimensions of well-being are evident, even in contexts of active labor market inclusion, underscoring the gap between formal inclusion and the subjective experience of quality of life. The integration of both approaches provides a comprehensive understanding of labor inclusion processes, highlighting the value of case-by-case analysis and the complementarity between contextual indicators and subjective perceptions. The findings reinforce the need for policies and programs that integrate technical, social, and psychosocial supports to promote meaningful career trajectories.