Do you have a disability that is keeping you from finding fair employment? Do you want to create a path for yourself where you can reach the career goals you want? With vocational rehabilitation, you can learn to walk your path, no matter your condition.
The 2020 pandemic created an immense dip in the economy and labour force worldwide. It forced many employees and business owners to quit and shut down their businesses. The worst part is that it created a gap in employment for jobseekers experiencing disability and injury.
Thanks to science, Australia is seeing economic and social recovery. In the latest statistics, employment increased by 29,100 people to almost 13 million. In the future, we’re likely to see another rise in employment rates.
If you’re a person with a disability, you won’t want to miss your chance. Learn more about vocational rehabilitation and what you can expect from it.
What Services are Available in Vocational Rehabilitation?
Vocational rehabilitation is a program that helps people with disabilities find employment. Others also refer to it as VR, vocational rehab, and VOC rehab. It helps a person with functional, psychological, cognitive, developmental, health, or emotional disabilities.
With that said, vocational rehabilitation includes a variety of services for the disabled. The most common ones include vocational assessment, counselling, and functional capacity assessments. If you have psychosocial and medical management issues, it will help you get through them.
Vocational training and developing work experience are also top services in vocational rehab. The services won’t stop there. If you need help to find a job, they’ll refer you to people and provide job placement services.
They understand how it feels to go to interviews as a person with a disability. They will help you develop self-confidence through engaging and motivational interviewing. This is a key skill that’ll give you an edge once you enter the labour market and apply for a job.
They’ll also keep track of you as you work and offer career counselling. Vocational rehab services won’t leave you hanging in the air. They’ll manage your case until you find stability and sustainable employment.
The vocational rehabilitation process is not only for workers who have disabilities. People who have an injury or illness that affects their work opportunities are also eligible for VR.
How Does Vocational Rehab Work?
You want to apply for VR services. Before you do, here are the processes you can expect from vocational rehabilitation.
The first step is to speak with your Planner or Support Coordinator about access to VR services.
On your first visit to a VR office, a rehabilitation counsellor will get assigned to meet with you. You will discuss your employment goals, concerns, and interests.
The rehabilitation counsellor may ask you to provide other information, and they may complete a Needs Assessment that will help them determine what elements of VR you require.
Support Plan or Rehabilitation Plan
Once you have commenced VR services, you will speak to your counsellor again. Together, you will discuss further how you’ll reach your goals. This includes exploring your skills, support needs, experiences, and interests.
You’ll also pinpoint what your employment goals are. Finally, you will develop a Support Plan or Rehabilitation Plan together. Every case is unique, so every person gets a customised and individualised approach.
You and your counsellor will discuss what kinds of services you need to achieve your goals. For example, you’re still a student but already looking to create a bright future. Your counsellor may offer services to help you with your transition from school to work.
Other services may include:
- Referral services
- Job coaching or tutoring
- Skills training
- College or vocational training
- Job placement aid
- Reader services for the blind
You may also get offered support, advocacy, and follow-up services. This is to assist in maximising the success of your vocational rehabilitation program. Expect to get a follow-up within 90 days after the job placement.
What to Expect When You Speak With a Vocational Rehab Counsellor
When you go to vocational rehabilitation, expect respect and support for your choices. You must also get individualised services tailored to your specific goals and needs. The organisation must work with you to help you identify and apply for opportunities that fit your goals.
As a client, you will benefit from active participation in VR services and engagement with your rehabilitation counsellor at the VR organisation.
Try to become familiar with the range of services the agency offers. Be an active participant in the creation of your Support Plan. The Support Plan is your guide and map for reaching your employment goal, after all.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the companies you want to work in. 89% of companies that employ persons with disabilities recognise its benefits. These include improved morale, filling a skills gap, improved productivity, and customer loyalty.
Things to Consider When Taking Vocational Rehab
Do you want specialist counsellors who know what they’re doing? Consider talking to a rehabilitation counsellor from Inclusion Rehab and Disability. Other than the usual services, they also offer vocational therapies and interventions.
Prepare a list of questions or requests you may have about the program. Once you’re in the program, set small goals at each meeting. Finally, be open to suggestions and about your goals.
Prepare a list of questions or requests you may have about the program. Once you’re in the program, set small goals at each meeting.
Finally, be open to suggestions and about your goals. Rehabilitation counsellors will always have your best interests in mind.
Widen Your Career Opportunities
Are you ready to take the steps to meet your employment goals? Find the best vocational rehabilitation facility to help you out today.
Contact us today to learn more about our vocational rehabilitation services. We’ll answer any question you have in mind.