Research

We know maintaining a bowel care routine while in hospital is essential. We have heard from many members that a lack of hospital supports makes them very reluctant to go to hospital when they need to. 

SCIA is supporting this critically important study exploring bowel care experiences during hospital stays being led by The Hopkins Centre. 

If you have been admitted to hospital (outside a spinal unit) anytime following acquiring your SCI your participation in this research study will help improve 

• patient experience
• Safety
• Dignity and autonomy 

And inform future healthcare policies and services.

The survey is anonymous, takes approximately 20-30 minutes, and you can enter a draw to win one of five $100 digital Mastercard gift cards. 

Please read the brochure to find out more or to complete the survey.

This Master’s research project in Disability and Inclusion at Deakin University aligns with the goal of promoting safety, autonomy, and inclusion for people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Drawing on the lived expertise of people with SCI, the study explores how individuals navigate emergencies and everyday crises—such as power outages or disruptions to essential supports—and how systems can better respond to their needs.

Findings will inform practical, person-centred improvements to emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. Key outcomes include:

• Identifying barriers experienced across the emergency cycle
• Understanding strategies used to maintain safety and continuity of support
• Providing evidence-based recommendations for more inclusive emergency policy and planning

Click here to learn more.

Researchers from Western Sydney University, Swinburne University and Spinal Cord Injuries Australia are inviting people living with Spinal Cord Injury and Exercise Professionals to take part in a research study. Our aim is to improve access to safe and inclusive exercise programs for people living with a spinal cord injury.

What is the study about?

This study is evaluating the Train the Trainers – Spinal Cord Injury (T3-SCI) program, which trains exercise professionals to safely support people with SCI in community gyms.

Who can take part?

You may be eligible as a Person living with SCI if you:

• Are aged 18 years or older
• Have a spinal cord injury and able to exercise in a gym
• Would like to attend a community gym and take part in supervised training for FREE

You may be eligible as an Exercise professional of you:

• Are a Registered Exercise Professional, Personal trainer, Exercise Scientist, Physiologist, or similar.
• Currently work in a community gym or exercise facility.
• Hold current professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
• Are interested in upskilling to work with people with SCI.

What does participation involve? If you take part, you will be asked to:

• Exercise professionals complete the T3-SCI training program (online modules and mentored components) and receive ongoing mentorship from experienced exercise physiologists and physiotherapists.
• Both people with SCI and exercise professionals complete a 12-week individualised exercise program in a gym.
• Both people with SCI and exercise professionals’ complete short surveys before and after the program
• People with SCI will complete a health diary over 6 months.
• You may also be asked to take part in a focus group (optional).

Why participate?

• Gain skills in inclusive exercise delivery for people with SCI
• Contribute to research that aims to improve access to community gyms for people with SCI across Australia

To find out more or check if you are eligible, please contact us via email T3SCImentors@westernsydney.edu.au or Phone: (02) 4620 3803