Work

 

Definitions of vocational rehabilitation

• Every year 110,000 people in England suffer a stroke

DoH (2005)

• 10% (>10,000) of working age (16-65 years)/1,000 stroke survivors below 30

Stroke Association (2006)

• For many, the primary goal is to return to work:
  • Financial benefit
  • Improves well-being and quality of life
  • Provides structure, social contact and status

Waddell & Burton (2006)

Worklessness: risks and harm

Not returning to work can impact on patients in many ways, including:

• Poverty
• Loss of fitness
• Physical and mental deterioration
• Psychological distress and depression
• Loss of work-related habits
• Social exclusion
• Increased suicide and mortality

Waddell & Aylwood (2005)