§ Ms BlearsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what plans he has to help individuals with acquired brain injury back into work; [147961]
(2) what guidance he gives to local authorities in Greater Manchester on support for vocational rehabilitation for individuals with acquired brain injury. [147962]
§ Mr. BayleyThis Department does not give guidance to local authorities on support for vocational rehabilitation. But, in partnership with the Department for Education and Employment, we are setting up a national network of Job Brokers under the auspices of the New 323W Deal for Disabled People. The brokers will offer people receiving incapacity benefits, including those with acquired brain injury, support, guidance and preparation to find paid work and move off benefit dependence.
One of our current New Deal for Disabled People innovative schemes is run by Rehab UK in conjunction with Rehab Scotland, the Shaw Trust and the Employment Service. Referrals to the scheme are made by employers, and three rehabilitation hospitals provide a programme to support adults with acquired disabilities, especially acquired brain injury, to retain or secure new employment. The project has created unique pathways between medical rehabilitation, vocational assessment, job coaching and supported employment to help employees return to work or find new employment.