Charity expands vital brain injury support to Coventry and Warwickshire
Headway launches local support service for survivors, families and carers
A new specialist support group for people affected by brain injury is being launched in Coventry and Warwickshire to provide help for survivors, families and carers after they leave hospital and complete rehabilitation.
Ian Souch attended the launch alongside his sister, Heather, whom he has helped care for since she was diagnosed with a brain tumour 34 years ago.
Ian said he was excited to see what the new service could offer his sister, as well as providing support for the wider family: "I hope this service will help Heather live a normal life. It’s great to see the social activities being planned too, as they’ll give her the opportunity to meet others in a similar situation and feel more connected."
"It can be challenging for us to know how to support Heather in the best way, so to have the opportunity to connect to support will be really beneficial to us."
Headway Coventry & Warwickshire has been established by Headway Birmingham & Solihull following a review of services across the region, which found a significant gap in support for people living with acquired brain injury.
Funded through a National Lottery grant, the study involved survivors, carers and healthcare professionals and found there was no dedicated support available after hospital discharge. With more than 5,000 people estimated to be living with a brain injury across Coventry and Warwickshire, the charity said action was needed.
Sue Tyler, chief executive of Headway Birmingham & Solihull, said many people were being left to cope alone: “Our findings show there is currently no provision in these areas following hospital discharge, leaving many people impacted by brain injury unable to access the vital help and support they need.
“We firmly believe this is too important to be a ‘postcode lottery’ where people can only get the support they need if they happen to live in the right place."
The new service will provide advice, information and emotional support, alongside opportunities for people affected by brain injury to connect with others who have had similar experiences.
Monthly meet-ups will be held in Coventry, Leamington and Nuneaton, with trained staff available to offer guidance and signpost people to appropriate services.