Vocational training is an education program for adults, and a good option for those with moderate to severe disabilities who wish to learn how to live independently while obtaining job skills. Many states have federal funding to offer vocational services to adults with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities. But, people with CP must meet certain requirements before being accepted into these programs.
Vocational, CP Job Service Training Qualifications
There are varying types/degrees of cerebral palsy. Adults with CP who are interested in applying to a state funded vocational and/or job service training program must qualify first. To be considered, the affected person must have a significant mental or physical disability, which hinders his or her ability to find employment and work. The adult must also show that he or she will be able to benefit from the services provided.
It is important to also note that to benefit from vocational rehabilitation and job service training, a person with cerebral palsy who attends this program must eventually be able to work on a part time or full time basis, and can achieve that goal either independently or with assistance.
What are IWRP and IHP?
These plans are set forth by the vocational rehab services similar to how an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is set up for younger students with disabilities in public schools. IWRP stands for “Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan”, and IHP is short for Individualized Habilitation Program”.
These plans outline in detail what equipment and services an individual with cerebral palsy and/or other disabilities will need in order to be able to get along in the community, find work, and contribute effectively.
How to Find Voc Rehab for Cerebral Palsy, CP Job Training Services
There are several useful ways in which a parent of a child with disabilities can find out more about the voc rehab services available in their state of residence. Try contacting a local parent support group, a nearby hospital or medical facility, or the state’s Department of Health and Human Services. Each of these is a good resource for finding out what vocational services are available in the area.
To find jobs for people with disabilities, parents may want to also check for the existence of a local United Cerebral Palsy affiliate. This national organization offers services through local affiliate groups that include education and work training. The UCP is one of the most inclusive, and recognized resources for families with cerebral palsy.
Job services for people with disabilities such as cerebral palsy can provide tools for independent living and working. Vocational training for people with CP is often federally funded, and it is worth it to research the available services in the area and apply for these independent living and job skills services. It is also possible to obtain funding for assistive equipment that will enable a person with cerebral palsy to work productively.
Sources:
Geralis, Elaine (editor), Children with Cerebral Palsy. MD: Woodbine House, Inc., 1998.
Further Reading:
Cerebral Palsy Characteristics and Risks
How to Help Students With Cerebral Palsy
Karen Plumley - Karen Plumley is a writer specializing in parenting and education. She works for Parenting NH and the Hippo, NH's most widely read ...
