Supporting Employment Outcomes for People with an Acquired Brain Iinjury – 3 Case Studies
Objective
The stories presented in this paper highlight the need for supported employment options for people with brain injuries to achieve and maintain meaningful employment.
The specific questions to be addressed include:
How have the supported employment options developed by the TAC assisted people with acquired brain injuries to gain meaningful employment?
What difference has employment made to these people’s lives?
How do we decide when somebody requires an ‘extra-ordinary’ level of support to participate in employment?
What are some employment options for people with acquired brain injuries that require more intense levels of support and supervision?
Method
In recognising that many people with an acquired brain injury will not realistically achieve full productivity in the open labour market without an certain level of support and supervision, the TAC established a relationship with a Disability Employment Services Provider to design and implement a ‘Shared Work Support Service’. 3 recipients of this service were interviewed about their individual experiences.
Results
The Case Studies highlight the importance and significance of people with acquired brain injuries attaining successful employment in a supported and adaptable environment and the impact on their overall health and wellbeing and their capacity to rebuild their lives in the community.
Conclusion
In order for many people with acquired brain injuries to gain and maintain diverse forms of employment they require initial and ongoing support. A ‘one size fits all’ employment model is not appropriate for people with serious brain injuries - innovation, dedication and intensive support is required to facilitate improved outcomes for people.