Rehabilitation Awards 2010 – Welcome

09/07/2010

Guests were welcomed to the Rehabilitation First Awards 2010 in the sumptuous surroundings of Merchant Taylors Hall by the chair of the judging panel, deputy editor of Post Lynn Rouse, who outlined why there should be a real sense of optimism and momentum building in the UK rehab industryâdespite it not being immune from the tough economic conditions.

She said: "We have the new fit note scheme, and employers are going to need your help in managing that.

“You are the experts in vocational rehab-and you are the ones that can help companies devise solutions that benefit both them and their employees. Then we have the new code of practice for providers, PAS 150. I know there was disappointment at the absence of an attached accreditation scheme-something you have long been seeking to prove the professionalism of what you do.

“But we now have confirmation that this code is the first step towards formal accreditation.

“So, here is my challenge to you: you have two years to test it to destruction and feedback your findings, to ensure that accreditation – when it comes – is fully fit for purpose.”

She also made reference to the first insurer forum held by the British Association of Rehabilitation Companies in June, which sparked a full and frank exchange of views about what insurers are looking for from their rehab partners: "Such positive dialogue can only bode well for the future. And then we have the new government, which has just unveiled a far-reaching programme of expenditure cuts. Chief among these is the intent to reduce the number of people on incapacity benefit.

“You may not share their politics or persuasion but your end goal is largely the same: to prevent illness and injuries being chronic conditions; to prevent people becoming isolated and disenfranchised from the world of work and health.”

She then extended thanks to the judges, sponsors and all those who took the time to enter, pointing out that a relatively common reason for entries not being shortlisted this year was that “the initiative in question was a little too early in its evolution or execution to be able to start generating real results”.

Ms Rouse concluded with a call for action: "We must not forget the one thing that drives you all – whether you are rehab providers, employers, solicitors or insurers – and that is outcomes. That is the measure of the great work you do. So, perhaps now is the time to embark on the final piece of the jigsaw, that substantial piece of research to prove – beyond doubt – the cost-benefit of rehab in appropriate cases.

“Every day you see the difference your efforts make to the lives of individuals. You all have data as to where and when it delivers the best results. What we need is that powerful and persuasive piece of work to convince policy makers – once and for all – to invest in developing seamless pathways between the private and public sectors. To make early intervention, through clinical and vocational rehab, the norm rather than the exception.”

See the winners

Original Article: Post