A study into the employment trends of individuals treated at a spinal cord injury centre

This study was undertaken to identify the employment status of individuals before and after spinal cord injury (SCI), the factors influencing return to work and the reasons why return to previous employment status were difficult, delayed or not achieved. The study identified when individuals were ready to address return to employment issues as well as the resources that may be required to support return to work. Postal questionnaires were sent to 242 individuals, aged 16 years and above, who were admitted to the Stanmore spinal cord injury centre (SCIC) with acute, traumatic SCI between 1998 and 2003. Forty-two percent of respondents returned to paid employment however, only 26% actually remained in employment. Reasons for non-return to or cessation of employment were primarily related to respondents' health, access to transport and training. Twenty-five percent of respondents described themselves as long-term sick, particularly those with cervical injuries. Physical intensity of work activities altered after injury. For those returning to paid employment, family and employer support was reported to be most commonly available and beneficial. Those respondents who had more structured support schemes had found them beneficial. Approximately half of respondents stated they were ready to address return to work during their admission. Findings suggest that vocational advice and education should be available following a SCI, particularly for those with a cervical injury or those working in heavy or strenuous jobs before injury.