Between 2000 and 2002 the project delivered Information Technology training to 32 people in the spinal injury units of three Sydney hospitals. Many participants in the project's first phase have rejoined the workforce, while others are undertaking further education and training.
The second phase of the vocational rehabilitation project, known as SpinalWorks, was conducted in 2005 by TAFE NSW, Western Sydney Institute - OTEN. SpinalWorks has built on this success of the earlier pilot, and has focused on tailoring training for individuals. Project participants have had more opportunities to gain VET credentials and greater access to computers outside teaching hours. A mentoring program has been established as part of the project and a comprehensive case management approach was initiated to follow up participants’ needs after they leave rehabilitation care.
An Evaluation of the 2005 SpinalWorks project was conducted by WestWood Spice for the NSW Department of Education and Training. (View the SpinalWorks Evaluation - Final Report.) The Evaluation report highlighted the importance of early exposure to computer technology and identified ongoing linkages to follow-up training and support to be a crucial part of rehabilitation.
In 2006, SpinalWorks aims to enable the systematic transition and reintegration of people from hospital spinal units to vocational training and employment in local community settings, in a whole of life coordinated approach, in collaboration with other government and non-government agencies.
