Headway Plymouth

Headway Plymouth provides a range of services to help people live independent lives, including:

• Day services
  Our day centre offers a variety of activities and support to help people with ABI improve their cognitive and social skills. We also offer a social space where people can meet other survivors of brain injuries and relax without fear of judgement.
• Home visits
  We can provide support to people with ABI in their own homes. This can include help with everyday tasks such as opening mail, using the computer, and shopping. We can also provide support with cognitive and social skills.
• Community support
  We can help people with ABI access the community. This can include taking them shopping, to social events, or to medical appointments. We can also provide support with transportation.

Our goal is to help people with ABI live independent and fulfilling lives. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to reach their full potential, regardless of their brain injury.

How we help family and carers

We understand that caring for someone with an ABI can be challenging. That's why we offer a range of services to support families and carers, including:

• Respite care
  We can provide short-term care for people with ABI so that their family and carers can have a break.
• Support groups
  We offer a variety of support groups for families and carers of people with ABI. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, get advice, and make friends.
• Information and advice
  We can provide information and advice to family and carers on a range of topics, including benefits, legal rights, and support services.

We believe that family and carers play a vital role in the recovery process. That's why we are committed to providing them with the support they need.

What is an acquired brain injury?

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is damage to the brain that happens after birth. It can be caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall or a car accident, or by a non-traumatic event, such as a stroke or a brain tumour.

Types of acquired brain injury

There are many different types of acquired brain injury, including:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): TBI is caused by a sudden, external force that damages the brain. This can include things like falls, car accidents, and sports injuries.
• Non-traumatic brain injury (NTBI): NTBI is caused by an internal event that damages the brain. This can include things like strokes, brain tumours, and infections.

Effects of acquired brain injury

The effects of an acquired brain injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the area of the brain that is damaged. Some common effects of ABI include:

• Coma
• Cognitive problems, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and problems with language
• Behavioural problems, such as aggression, impulsivity, and social withdrawal
• Executive dysfunction, which is a problem with planning, organising, and carrying out tasks
• Communication problems
• Chronic fatigue
• Hormonal imbalances
• Physical problems, such as paralysis, seizures, and difficulty walking
• Memory problems
• Post-traumatic amnesia

Treatment for acquired brain injury

The treatment for an acquired brain injury will vary depending on the severity of the injury and the area of the brain that is damaged. Some common treatments for ABI include the following:

• Surgery
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Psychological counselling

Coping with acquired brain injury

Acquiring a brain injury can be a life-changing event. It is important to seek support from family, friends, and professionals to help you cope with the physical, emotional, and social challenges that you may face. There are many resources available to help people with ABI, including:

• Support groups
• Online forums
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organisations

If you or someone you know has suffered an acquired brain injury, please reach out for help. There is no shame in asking for assistance, and it can make a big difference in your recovery.

Other support services

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