Action for Brain Injury Week 2022. See the Hidden Me.

One of the biggest challenges my clients with brain injury has faced….

Is that often people have "written" them off in terms of vocation or occupational tasks.

I have two clients who had a brain injury over ten years ago who are now working part time or looking to do so. 

One following a pre injury self employed role for 10 hours a week using his hobby and passion to restore and sell antiques.

Or another client who is using his lived experience to help mentor and inspire others with brain injury or mental health issues as a result as a self employed part time guest speaker supporting charities or similar groups.

Many people think that occupation needs to be paid work full time.

Or that because they had an injury years ago, there is no hope or chance of them working.

Not so. 

These clients are working within their rehabilitation or social goals as well as managing fatigue or cognitive problems.

Yes - they may need some support and help.

Are they getting results?

100% Yes!

The satisfaction of "giving back to others" or " having a reason to get out of bed" or "the buzz I get when I sell something" is what they tell me.

Who are we to determine what can and cannot be done unless we try.

Unless we at least give people the best opportunity.

I like to call this Smart Vocational Rehabilitation.

Using the right person for support, in the right way and at the right time.

I enjoy working and thinking "outside the box" helping brain injury and other clients to guide them and change their tragedy into victory.   

Maria Morris

Vocational Case Manager

One of the most common challenges my clients face is having a full daily dairy with appointments and no time to live a normal life which goes on for years.

Helen Burrow

Case Manager

One of the most common challenges my clients face is people generalising the term “brain injury”. An injury to the brain will impact every individual differently and the severity of their disability will range significantly. What has worked for one individual will not necessarily work for another, so it is imperative that we continually personalise and adapt our approach to achieve each clients goals.  Another challenges my clients face is being thought of as ‘normal’. No-one sees past the beautiful young lady she is and the cognitive and physical struggles she has every day. 

Mary Tavinor

Head of Case Management - South