Local charity launches campaign to support brain injury survivors and families through first stages of rehabilitation

A local charity has launched a campaign to support brain injury survivors and their families during the initial stages of their care.

Headway East London launched its Better Together campaign at the Royal London Hospital, part of Barts Health NHS Trust.

The team will provide advice and information to survivors and those close to them in the first part of rehabilitation following brain injury.

It is hoped the regular, vital support will improve the psychological wellbeing of patients, and will help them to avoid personal or financial crises which have been known to affect those adjusting to life with a brain injury.

Headway East London’s chief executive Anna McEwen said: “We are really thrilled to once again be working with The Royal London Hospital on this vital project.

“The earlier that families and survivors can access support following a brain injury, the better equipped they will be upon discharge as they navigate this new journey.

“We’re confident this project will allow us to reach hundreds more within our catchment area, and thank both the clinical teams and our sponsors for their support.”

This recent development expands on current work the charity is doing throughout the borough, and is also a continuation of the charity’s five-year relationship with the Royal London Hospital.

It is hoped that this targeted campaign will reach more people at an earlier stage in the brain injury journey.

Peer support worker Dean is one crucial member of the Better Together team. He has lived experience of brain injury and uses his own insight to support those in need.

He said: “When I was in the critical early stages of my recovery there was no one to tell me or my loved ones how the injury would affect my life.

“I am in a unique position to be able to share my experiences and advice, and I’m looking forward to getting into the Royal London Hospital and connecting with people when they need it most.”

Alice Kershberg, a neurotrauma clinical nurse specialist att eh Royal London, added: “I am very excited to recommence this wonderful collaboration; Headway East London provide vital support and guidance.

“Having witnessed the positive impact they have on brain injury survivors and really noticing their lack on input in the early stages in the hospital I cannot wait for their return.”

Better Together runs at the Royal London Hospital every Wednesday afternoon. For more information, contact support-us@headwayeastlondon.org.