Identify vocational need for help
You identify the vocational need for help, increase the knowledge and empower the person with ABI to consult with relevant stakeholders
The vocational rehabilitation process, as outlined, is developed based on literature research, existing VR protocols in the Netherlands and Flanders, qualitative research, and collaboration with project partners. This methodology integrates principles from two Dutch VR protocols: Early Vocational Rehabilitation and the Round Table methodology. The process is divided into three iterative steps:
Workplace rehabilitation, on the other hand, aims to guide and support injured workers for a safe return to work after an injury.
The goal of rehabilitation is to enhance the independence of individuals with health conditions and promote their active involvement in society, including workforce participation.
In Belgium, vocational rehabilitation (VR) is an integral part of overall rehabilitation services. This specialised form of rehabilitation targets individuals of working age facing obstacles in labour participation due to health issues, with a focus on enhancing their employment prospects (Escorpizo et al., 2011).
⚠️ Note: Belgium has federal and regional regulations governing labour reintegration and job retention, with various stakeholders involved.
👉 Click on any of the following questions for detailed information on vocational rehabilitation.
Functioning with ABI: Ability to orient oneself in time and space, comprehend commands through various means, and utilize aids if necessary.
Trainability and learnability: Capability to perform actions or procedures after receiving information, with repeated guidance if needed.
Availability of rehabilitation sessions for vocational purposes.
Partnership among the treatment team, workplace, occupational physician, health insurance fund advisor or back-to-work coordinator, and vocational mediators (VDAB and/or GTB) is crucial for effective collaboration.
Early involvement of the work environment, including the employer and occupational physician, is initiated with the individual's consent.
You can outline this collaborative approach to the individual using a consent form, where they authorise consultation with other stakeholders from the treatment team.
💡Tip: Utilise this consultation to gather details on job requirements (tasks, responsibilities), work environment specifics, and cognitive, physical, and emotional expectations. This information can be valuable in the vocational rehabilitation process.
In Belgium, there is no separate approval number or agreement required to start a VR process after an acquired brain injury.
However, if the brain injury is a result of an accident at work, approval from the occupational accident insurance company can be requested for the VR process
Non-European nationals who wish to work in Belgium generally need authorisation to work. This authorisation can be in the form of a work permit or a "single permit," which certifies the right to stay and work in Belgium. The application for authorisation should be submitted to Brussels Economy and Employment, depending on the specific situation and residence status of the individual.