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Vocational rehabilitation is a planned
series of activities with the goal of getting an individual
back to work. It is defined by its purpose and process as
much as by its methods, and is a dynamic, flexible
interactive process, rather than any one specific activity.
There seems to be little dispute that
helping the Claimant return to work is one of the key
factors in rebuilding a life. As well as the obvious benefit
of providing an income, returning to work after an illness
or injury has all the associated benefits of allowing the
individual to again become a contributing member of society,
to feel valued and to reduce social isolation. Research has
shown that improvements in health and well being often
follow a return to work.
How does vocational rehabilitation
work
Vocational rehabilitation normally begins with a detailed
review and evaluation of the individual and their
circumstances, including for example their support system.
The assessment is designed to identify realistic work goals
(both short-term and long-term); the barriers that stand in
the way of achieving those goals; and a set of specific
recommendations to overcome these barriers. It is not
something that can be imposed on the individual. To be
effective the process requires the active participation of
the Claimant.
Specific activities that constitute
vocational rehabilitation are varied but can include:
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Psychometric testing to determine
re-training aptitude |
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Interest guides and personality
questionnaires to assist the client in understanding own
strengths and weaknesses. |
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Placement in the workplace to build
work stamina and re-establish work habits. |
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Career guidance and careers
counselling. |
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Others can include, information on
how to manage the disability in the workplace, stress
management, social skills training, development of
communication skills, literacy & numeracy training
and coaching. |
Different people will require different
services. For some, simply having a realistic vocational
goal through good quality careers guidance is enough, for
others, more ongoing support is required. Ultimately, the
key point is that someone is "on the case" and
providing necessary and appropriate support when required.
For example, it may be possible for the
individual to retain their existing job. This is certainly
worth exploring on the basis that it is generally easier to
keep a job than to find another one. This may involve
retraining of the individual, and/or some changes to the way
a job is undertaken (often reasonably simple and cost
effective changes making use of government grants). |
