MindWorksBC Pre-employment Service
A clinic-based pre-employment service delivered by Back in Motion Rehab,
in partnership with HeadWise and designed specifically for persons
with neurological disabilities*. The purpose is to assist individuals to better
manage their disability in order to prepare them for participation in community employment services.
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*Neurological disabilities include congenital conditions (such as Cerebral Palsy or
Fetal Alcohol Disorder), acquired conditions (such as strokes, brain tumours, or traumatic brain injury) and nero-degenerative disorders (such as Multiple Sclerosis
or Parkinson’s disease).
Description of Services
The service begins with an information session and application process.
Once eligibility is confirmed, an assessment is undertaken to develop an individualized plan that addresses client specific needs. Based on the
assessment, individuals then participate in a set of relevant pre-employment modules. These modules are conducted one-to-one or in small groups, and include:
1. Community Resources & Family Education
The purpose of this module is to support
individuals to access appropriate community resources, and assist the
family to better understand the client's neurological disability, and
how they can best support him/her to achieve
maximum functioning.
2. Self-management Education Sessions
This module is designed to equip
participants with coping and management strategies, improve
employability, and increase self-awareness and the ability
to communicate needs to others.
3. Work/Life Skills Practice
Work/Life Skills
Practice occurs one-to-one with an Occupational Therapist.
The purpose is to improve overall home and work function in areas such
as communication, recalling instructions, avoiding distractions,
organizing
appointments and schedules, and managing emotions.
4. Balance & Mobility Training
These sessions,
conducted by a Physical Therapist or Kinesiologist, address
issues such as increased risk for falls, frequent loss of balance on
uneven
surfaces, utilization of assistive devices for gait, and dizziness
and/or loss of
balance with certain postures or activities.
Eligibility Criteria
Anyone living in the lower mainland with a medically verifiable neurological
disability who is interested in pursuing employment or volunteering and is
not eligible for third party funding for voc-rehab services. The service
is funded by the Ministry of Housing and Social Development, and is free
to all eligible participants.
Referral Contact
Contact Person:
Cynthia Abbott
Tel: (604) 233-2215
Fax: (604) 273-1177
Email: cynthiaa@backinmotion.com
Location:
Back in Motion Rehab Inc.
#140–6651 Elmbridge Way
Richmond, BC V7C 5C2
