Returning to work after spinal cord injury

Returning to your current workplace

If you’re planning to return to your existing job, starting conversations early can help make the process smoother.

A good first step is speaking with your GP, specialist, or rehabilitation team about:

• Your medical clearance for work

• Your current capacity and limitations

• Any workplace adjustments or supports you may need

• Creating a gradual return-to-work plan

Many people benefit from a gradual return-to-work approach.

This may include:

• Reduced hours initially

• Flexible start and finish times

• Modified duties

• Working from home arrangements

• Assistive technology or equipment

• Additional rest breaks

Open communication with your employer can help ensure expectations are realistic and supportive.

Things to consider before returning to work

Returning to work after SCI often involves more than just the job itself.

You may also need to think about:

• Transport to and from work

• Building accessibility

• Parking or public transport access

• Accessible bathrooms

• Bladder and bowel management routines

• Fatigue and pain management

• Support workers or personal care needs

• Assistive technology and equipment

It’s important to remember that adjustment takes time, both for you and your workplace.

Exploring new career pathways/opportunities after SCI

It’s common for people not to return to the same job or industry after spinal cord injury.

For some, this can become an opportunity to explore:

• A different career

• Flexible work options

• Self-employment

• Further study

• New interests and goals

• Volunteering and community participation

Volunteering

Volunteering can be a great way to:

• Build confidence

• Explore new industries

• Meet people

• Gain experience

• Ease back into structured activity

Many volunteer roles offer flexibility and can help you identify what kind of work or environment suits you best.

You can search for volunteer opportunities through:

• Volunteering SA&NT

estara also offers volunteering opportunities and peer connection programs within the community.

Study and retraining opportunities

Study can be a great pathway into a new career or help you build new skills and confidence.

Many universities, TAFEs, and training organisations offer:

• Accessibility services

• Learning support

• Flexible study options

• Scholarships and disability supports

Short courses can also be a good way to explore interests without committing to a long qualification.

In Adelaide, WEA South Australia offers a wide range of short courses in areas such as:

• Creative arts

• Languages

• Computing

• Cooking

• Business and professional development

Learn more at: WEA South Australia

Questions to ask yourself when planning your next steps

As you explore work, volunteering, or study, it can help to think about:

• What interests you

• Your strengths and skills

• Your physical abilities

• Your lifestyle and support needs

• What motivates you

• What kind of work environment suits you

There’s no single “right” pathway. What matters most is finding something meaningful and sustainable for you.

Peer support and lived experience can help

Sometimes the best advice comes from people who have been through similar experiences.

estara’s Peer Support Mentors can provide practical guidance, encouragement, and lived-experience insights about returning to work, study, and community life after spinal cord injury.