Neuro Rehabilitation in Somerset for People with an Acquired Brain Injury

Healthwatch Somerset decided to build on previous work on people with an acquired brain injury by looking at access to information and rehabilitation.  They undertook interviews of staff and survivors.

Healthwatch Somerset's engagement with ABI survivors and professionals has revealed critical gaps in the county's healthcare and rehabilitation pathways for ABI. Key issues include poor discharge planning, with many survivors reporting a lack of information and support, leading to isolation and loneliness. There is currently no offender-specific framework to support individuals with ABI in the criminal justice system, leaving significant rehabilitation needs unmet. 

A shortage of neuropsychologists is delaying timely care, and the absence of a dedicated ABI case coordinator has resulted in fragmented service delivery. Referral pathways remain limited, with access to neuropsychology only for those who have been an inpatient at Somerset Neurological Rehabilitation Centre (SNRC), and there is no central system to track ABI survivor outcomes or evaluate service effectiveness. 

Community rehabilitation teams lack access to essential cognitive and fatigue therapies, which are vital for those with neurological conditions. Broader systemic issues include a shortage of beds, limited funding, and low public awareness of ABI, impacting early intervention. 

A coordinated, strategic response is needed should include post-discharge family support, offender rehabilitation framework, increased neuropsychology staffing, dedicated care coordination, robust data systems, expanded therapy provision and formal service evaluation tools, plus the need to look at whether the number and location of the inpatient beds is sufficient.