Work-hardening Programmes

Referrals come from insurers, claims managers, insurance brokers, occupational health providers and employers. The programme suits cases where a person is absent after injury or illness and needs to regain the strength and stamina their role demands before a return to work can succeed.

It is not only for people who are off work. A one-off referral can also be made where someone is at work but finding it difficult to sustain a normal working week.

The programme can be directed by a vocational rehabilitation consultant as part of wider case management or delivered in response to a single stand-alone referral. Where a functional assessment has been carried out, it provides an objective baseline for tracking progress through the programme.

Each programme starts with a personalised treatment plan. An experienced physiotherapist from our network works with the individual to understand their specific challenges and goals, then builds the plan around the physical demands of their job.

The programme itself is structured exercise that mimics real work tasks. Sessions target mobility, strength, endurance and motor skills, building the stamina and strength the role requires.

The referrer receives an initial assessment report detailing the physical barriers to work and the clinical recommendations to improve function for work. All reports are clinically overseen by Form Health's clinical lead. Progress reports can be provided as required, and discharge reports will be provided at the closure of the case to highlight the benefit of treatment.

Where the programme forms part of vocational rehabilitation case management, Form Health's consultant coordinates the intervention and keeps the employer and insurer informed throughout. The referral is designed to deliver an individual with the physical capability to meet their job demands, a safer return to their role and a lower risk of re-injury.