LIFELONG SUPPORT FOR THOSE SUFFERING BRAIN INJURIES

HEADWAY is a national charity that supports those who have suffered brain injury, whether through sudden trauma or illness.

There are many branches throughout Scotland, including one in Dumfries & Galloway, which has been shortlisted in its area for assistance from the Bank of Scotland Community Fund.

From its base at Headway House in Dumfries, it covers the whole of the area, supporting those who have sustained a head injury – this includes helping them and their families to understand the injury, chart a road to recovery and help in the rehabilitation.

“We’re a voluntary organisation,” says Susan Nicoll, “and support all ages from birth onwards.

“The aim is to promote understanding of all aspects of brain injury and support to the person, the family and the carers.”

As Susan says, it can happen at any time, whether suddenly through a road traffic accident, injury at work, or even a sports accident.

Or it can be acquired through brain tumours, an aneurism, haemorrhage or even infection.

Susan says that should they be successful in winning a £3000 award it would go some way to helping them to purchase a vital piece of expensive equipment for the gym at Headway House, which offers rehabilitation, social inclusion and vocational respite for family members.

“We have already been fund-raising for a MOTOmed,” she says. “It’s a piece of equipment that can be used with the arms or legs, and can help immensely with rehabilitation.”

‘The aim is to promote understanding of all aspects of brain injury, and support the person, family and carers’