The ABI strategy, announced by the government in December 2021, has been championed by Chris Bryant MP with support from Headway and other brain injury charities.
Importantly, the government is seeking the views of brain injury survivors, carers and family members as well as charities and professionals supporting those living with ABI as part of the consultation, which is open now and will run for 12 weeks.
Rather than a formal consultation on specific proposals, the call for evidence constitutes a request for ideas on which the strategy programme board can build, with the board acknowledging that people living with ABI need support from a range of services.
Those completing the survey will be asked what the strategy should look to cover to better support people living with an acquired brain injury, including but not limited to health and social care, access to employment opportunities and benefits, and housing.
“This strategy is a significant step forward in efforts to finally address the needs of those affected by brain injury,” said Peter McCabe, Chief Executive of Headway.
“We are a particularly pleased to hear that the voices, experiences and thoughts of brain injury survivors, families and carers will be heard as part of this process. This is something we feel is essential.
“We look forward to contributing to the development of this strategy as part of our work to improve life after brain injury.”
Speaking at the launch of the call for evidence, Chris said: “I’m delighted that the government is starting to pull together a cross government strategy on acquired brain injury.
“We need people to come forward with ideas and suggestions based on their experience of brain injury as practitioners, patients or family members so we can get this strategy right.
“I urge everyone to take part if they think they have an insight to offer.”
The ABI strategy programme board will be co-chaired by Chris and Gillian Keegan MP, Minister for Care and Mental Health.
“It is absolutely essential people living with acquired brain injury get the best possible care and treatment and that we take steps to prevent these injuries wherever possible.
“Together the cross-government programme board and the call for evidence will allow us to deliver a strategy to address issues that matter most to those with acquired brain injuries.”
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You can find out more about the call for evidence here.
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