It’s completely normal to feel uncertain or nervous at the prospect of returning to work after a medical break. Some people may want to dive straight back into their jobs, whereas others might find that the career waiting for them isn’t the one they want anymore.
Reinventing your career after a spinal cord injury is a great opportunity to discover new passions and possibilities for your professional growth.
Whilst this change might be anxiety-inducing, we urge you to remember the wealth of knowledge, experience and unique skills you have to offer potential employers when exploring these potential career paths.
In this article, we’ll explore why working life might look different when returning to work after a spinal cord injury, how to navigate career changes with a disability and how Aspire Law’s support can empower your recovery.
Employment after spinal cord injury
According to the Spinal Injuries Association, over 4.7 million disabled people in the UK are employed, meaning that you are certainly not alone when navigating the workplace with a spinal cord injury.
Health and wellbeing
For many, professional careers are the cornerstone of people’s lives. Working provides many people with financial support, health insurance and a multitude of other monetary benefits.
Of course, working is not only a means to an end; it also gives so many people a sense of purpose and belonging, which is transformative for mental well-being. Additionally, working with others gives one the opportunity to interact daily with like-minded individuals from a diversity of backgrounds.
The culmination of these factors has a profoundly positive influence on a person’s self-esteem and overall life satisfaction.
Rights for people with SCI
The unknown concerning your future professional path can seem frightening. Fortunately, the law protects your right to work, meaning that you can do whatever you put your mind to.
The Equality Act of 2010 is a set of regulations to ensure that disabilities are protected from discrimination in the workplace, according to the UK Government.
As a result, employers have to make reasonable adjustments to support one’s disability in the workplace, meaning that you’re not at a disadvantage purely because of your disability. For example, your employer must adapt your working hours or provide you with special equipment to empower you to do your job successfully, if you need it.
This gives people with spinal cord injuries the peace of mind of knowing that they will be supported professionally.
Your injury won’t hold you back. An employer who’s recruiting can only make limited enquiries about your health or disability to measure your suitability for the role and the accommodations you may need.
Protecting you from discrimination
This act works to safeguard people with a range of disabilities from unequal treatment in the workplace. There are multiple professional processes during which you are protected, including:
- Job offers
- Terms of employment
- Dismissal and redundancy
- Promotion, transfer or training opportunities
- Interview arrangements
Returning to work
You might find yourself physically unable to complete the job you did before the injury. However, please don’t panic if your career pre-injury no longer aligns with your physical abilities. People change careers for various reasons at different points in their lives, regardless of a change in physicality.
In a modern, post-covid professional environment, the transition to remote and hybrid working is an industry standard for most sectors. As a result, careers are more accessible than ever before, especially for those with spinal cord injuries.
Reinventing careers after a spinal cord injury
Finding a role that’s more suited to you can feel daunting, but try to frame this experience more positively. You get to start fresh and find something that you’re truly passionate about! During your rehabilitation, you may learn new things about yourself that can be applied to your professional career.
All you need to do is find another role that is more suited to your interests, physical abilities, skills, qualities and experiences. There are plenty of jobs for paraplegics and we can support you throughout your journey in finding the right fit for you.
Tips and guidance during a career change
Get started with these tips to guide you throughout your career change:
- Identify your strengths and interests: Reflect on your skills, passions, and what brings you personal and professional fulfilment.
- Seek guidance and support: Get in touch with career counsellors, rehabilitation specialists, and support groups for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
- Network and build connections: Attend industry events where you can and connect with professionals in your field. You can also leverage digital platforms to expand your network.
- Remain adaptable and open to new opportunities: Embrace challenges and be open-minded to different career paths that may not have been on your radar before.
Receive the support you deserve
Reinventing your career after a spinal cord injury is a journey, not a destination. With a healthy balance of determination, resilience, and the right support, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful career that aligns with your professional goals and aspirations.
Organisations like Aspire and Aspire Law are here to provide you with valuable resources and support for individuals with spinal cord injuries seeking employment.
Get in touch with a member of our team to discover more about our range of services and how we can provide you with the guidance you deserve.
