Right to Rehab

Investing in ABI rehabilitation delivers substantial economic and social returns. It reduces long-term healthcare costs, increases workforce participation, and alleviates pressure on social services.

The leaders of our health service have acknowledged the importance of rehabilitation, but we now need a comprehensive plan to develop a national network of neuro-rehabilitation centres to deliver this.

To improve the lives of people with ABI and create a more equitable society, we’ve identified four priorities:

1. Access to effective rehabilitation - Right to Rehab
   Timely and appropriate rehabilitation empowers individuals with ABI to recover, regain independence, and contribute more fully to society. In many cases, it enables people to return to work, reducing long-term dependency. For the estimated 300,000 individuals who need this support, effective rehabilitation could also deliver significant financial benefits, saving the NHS over £5 billion annually (see the APPG report on ABI - Time for Change)
   
   
2. Addressing brain injury in the justice system
   Research shows that up to 60% of prisoners have experienced a traumatic brain injury (see Traumatic brain injury – HMIP academic study). Proper screening, identification, and intervention within the justice system can help address underlying issues, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and reduce reoffending rates, ultimately leading to safer communities and lower costs for taxpayers.
   
   
3. Education and young people. Schools, colleges must take proactive steps to prevent and address brain injuries. Increasing general awareness of the risks to young people and children of head injuries during this critical stage of development is essential. By fostering early intervention and education, we can significantly reduce the long-term impact of ABIs.
   
   
4. Promoting awareness and support in sports
   Schools, colleges, and sports providers must take proactive steps to prevent and address brain injuries. This includes delivering robust training for staff, establishing clear protocols for identifying injuries, and providing ongoing support for those affected.

Together, these measures represent a comprehensive approach to improving outcomes for people with ABI while creating substantial societal and economic benefits. At UKABIF, we are committed to working with stakeholders across healthcare, justice, education, and sports to make these changes a reality, and deliver a genuine Right to Rehab.