Over the past few weeks, Headway groups from across the region have been forced to close the doors to their day centres as the coronavirus pandemic continues to change the world as we know it.
But the charities - based in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire, and all affiliated to the national charity Headway – refuse to let this stop them in their mission to improve life after brain injury for survivors and their loved ones.
Rather than putting a stop to the services once on offer, these incredible charities have been going above and beyond to continue supporting those most in need during uncertain times.
From virtual exercise classes to emergency care packages and extensive ring around services, the Headway groups in the East Midlands have been tireless in their efforts.
Charlotte Leask from Headway Nottingham said: “We know just how devastating and complex the effects of a brain injury can be so it’s more important now than ever that we’re on hand to support our service users.
“With welfare calls, remote and virtual support we’re working hard to minimise the effects of isolation that could be so destructive for our service users. Just being a listening ear on the phone and providing opportunities to continue their rehabilitation from home can make a huge difference to someone.
“This crisis could have a serious impact on the charity’s chances of survival, but our immediate focus must remain providing a lifeline for those who may not show up on any other services’ radar. While our services may have to adapt for the time being, we will continue to power on and do everything possible to support the most vulnerable in our community.”
Staff at Headway Leicestershire are fighting on the frontline, offering support with shopping, supplies and medication. They are also providing welfare checks to try and combat feelings of loneliness as the period of self-isolation continues.
Also making strides to support vulnerable members of the community is Headway East Northants. By offering support with shopping and prescriptions, and working on tailored activities and newsletters for service users, the charity is continuing to improve life after brain injury during these challenging times.
Further north, Headway Derby has launched innovative new services that bring together brain injury survivors and their loved ones from across the community. These include virtual dance and movement sessions, an education course and a new activity campaign, Spring Into Action.
Across the rest of the region, Headway Northampton, Headway Lincolnshire and Headway North Derbyshire are continuing to support brain injury survivors during troubling times by operating dedicated phonelines for support and advice.
Of course, the provision of all these services has put even more of a strain on the charities in an already troubling time for the sector. That’s why they need your help!
Many of the Headway groups rely on the fees paid by service users to attend the day centres or the income from fundraising activities, and without these, it leaves the charities facing an uncertain future.
Headway Lincolnshire’s Ann-Marie Smith said: “The provision of our services – both now and in the future – rely on generous donations so any support would be gratefully received.
“By donating the cost of your daily commute to work, that cup of coffee from your local coffee shop or just spare change, you’ll be helping us to improve life after brain injury for those in the East Midlands.
“Your donation will ensure that we reach those who so urgently need our help during these unprecedented times, and will make a lasting difference to the lives of all those affected by brain injury.”
To find out more about each individual Headway group, and for information about how to donate, visit headway.org.uk/supporting-you/in-your-area/groups-and-branches/east-midlands/
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