Getting Back To Work After Stroke

What we will cover today

•Why work after stroke?

•Who and what can help?

•Case Study

•What next?

Why work after stroke?

Positive effect on the individual & family unit

Positive effect on society

Barriers

• Not enough rehab, feeling “written off”

• Pressure to return too soon

• Not knowing who can help

• Non-physical “invisible side of stroke”

• Not being able to drive

• Benefits trap, recession

Enablers

Positive rehab staffNo pressure to return too soonSupportive employersAccess to Work, Disability Employment

AdvisersEmployment Schemes, e.g. Work Choice DrivingCharities (work experience)

The Equality Act 2010

• Replaced Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)• Requires employers to make reasonable

adjustments• Covers all aspects of employment

What are “reasonable adjustments”?

Employers have a duty to make “reasonable adjustments” to workplaces & work practices

BUT there is no fixed definition of “reasonable”!

This depends on:

• practicality

• cost

• the extent to which business may be disrupted

What are “reasonable adjustments”?

Reasonable adjustments include:

• A phased return to work

• Modifying a job description

• Flexibility around working hours

• Adjusting performance targets

• Ensuring easy access

• Changing time of a job interview/appraisal if it coincides with a medical appointment

Case Study

• Stu Brown’s story – how he returned to work after his stroke

What next?

PLAN:

Don’t rush back too soon – take your time, speak to your GP

Keep lines of communication open with your employer

Negotiate a phased return to work

Be prepared for fatigue

Who can help?

• A “buddy” or mentor may speak up for you and explain your situation

• HR department, Occupational Health Department, or trade union rep

• If you feel under pressure, speak to your manager to explain your concerns

Exploring New Opportunities

• Access To Work

• Work Choice/Work Programme

• Remploy

• Shaw Trust

• Self-employment

• Volunteering

For further information and support in returning to work contact:

Different Strokes9 Canon Harnett CourtWolverton MillMilton KeynesMK12 5NF

01908 317618 or 0845 130 7172

info@differentstrokes.co.uk

www.differentstrokes.co.uk

Further Information