Lay summary
Of the 8000 New Zealanders who experience stroke annually, many are of working age wanting to return to work (RTW). One method of supporting RTW is vocational rehabilitation. Early Intervention Vocational Rehabilitation (EIVR) is vocational rehabilitation that commences during the primary/hospital rehabilitation phase, often within weeks following onset of acquired disability. Previous work by the research team has developed a conceptual model of EIVR. This model offers an opportunity to develop new ways of providing vocational rehabilitation within existing stroke services. Preliminary work developing the model has highlighted that vocational rehabilitation services for the NZ stroke population are delivered in an ad hoc manner via various and often fragmented services. This creates a challenge for implementing new initiatives. Our aims are to build capacity, establish relationships and engage with stakeholders in Auckland and Rotorua as preparatory work for a larger follow-on study aiming to implement EIVR in these regions.