It gives us great pleasure to write the preface to this book, the second in the series of monographs produced by the European Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine. No part of medicine, no clinical intervention, is complete without thinking about its effect on the person’s life and the quality thereof. One of the most powerful determinants of this is work; a source not only of income, but of satisfaction and a sense of purpose and worth. The Academy, founded in 1969, is composed of senior European doctors spec- lising in Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine. It meets regularly to discuss matters of importance in the field, including teaching, research and ethical matters. It recognises that the ability of the speciality and of related ones to decrease dependency and increase autonomy and quality of life needs to be better known. Hence the production of these monographs. They will help readers access a vast amount of literature on the practice of rehabilitation and its effectiveness. They should be particularly useful to young doctors preparing for the European Boards certification in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine as they are authoritative and cover subjects in depth. Topics covered in the series range from basic sciences to the most applied areas.

This text provides an overview of vocational rehabilitation (VR) practice, making it the perfect companion for students and practitioners with an interest in supporting people back to work and improving their sense of health and well-being. The book is divided into three parts: the first covers the policy context of VR in the UK, defining VR, outlining the development of national standards in the sector, and looking at issues such as the economy and worklessness, and the legal background. The second part examines models of VR practice and relevant standards. It explores the nature of developing services in the public and private sectors, illustrated by case studies from a range of disciplinary backgrounds. The final part presents a detailed introduction to the knowledge and skills required in providing a VR service, including consideration of the multidisciplinary processes and stages involved. Introduction to Vocational Rehabilitation includes numerous case studies and a dedicated chapter of issues and questions to aid reflection. Comprehensive and evidence-based, this is the first multidisciplinary textbook for students and practitioners from a range of backgrounds, including occupational therapy and health, physiotherapy, human resources, nursing, social work and health psychology.

This book introduces the occupational therapist to the practice of vocational rehabilitation. As rehabilitation specialists, Occupational Therapists work in a range of diverse settings with clients who have a variety of physical, emotional and psychological conditions. Research has proven that there are many positive benefits from working to health and well-being. This book highlights the contribution, which can be made by occupational therapists in assisting disabled, ill or injured workers to access, remain in and return to work.