We only have to read the newspapers every day and observe the tragic numbers of road traffic accidents and street brawls to see that brain injuries can happen to anyone at any time– the effects of which can be devastating, not only to the person themselves but to the family and friends who can be expected to become twenty-four hour carers overnight.

Headway is the Irish National Association for Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Founded in 1985, it develops, provides and promotes services to enhance the potential of people with an acquired brain injury.

It also works to heighten public and political awareness of acquired brain injury and the impact it has on individuals, families and carers, identifying its mission as to ‘bring about positive change in the lives of those affected by an acquired brain injury.’

They boast a range of community-based rehabilitation services for people affected by ABI, including rehabilitative training, day rehabilitative services, psychology, therapy and family support, information, outreach, community access and employment services.

Part of their work involves reaching out to the wider community, including the Community Centre in Ringsend.
In many cases people with a brain injury have no obvious physical disability but the effects can be profound and unique to each individual. Due to the many and varied effects of acquired brain injury, people affected require specialist support to live independently, work or return to education, participate in social and leisure activities and maintain family roles and personal relationships.

The Headway Day Service Centre for Dublin South is situated in Ringsend and Irishtown Community Centre, Thorncastle Street. They meet on Tuesday and Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm. For more information please ring the Helpline 1890200278 or 01 8102066 or log onto www.headway.ie

Pictured above at Ringsend and District Community Centre are Helen McCarthy of Headway and Councillor Daithí Doolan.