Recliner mechanism

A recliner mechanism for a vehicle seat includes a support plate mounted on the squab of the seat, and a support plate mounted on the back rest of the seat. There is a pivotal interconnection between the plates to enable the back rest to be reclined. The pivotal interconnection is initially retained by a spring, in a retaining part of an elongate slot. When the back rest is subjected to a rearward force, such as by a seat occupant in a rear impact situation, the spring is deformed and the pivot shaft moves along the slot, enabling the back rest to move rearwardly. An energy absorbing element is provided which deforms, whilst absorbing energy, during this second movement of the back rest.