People who have had a stroke or other recent brain injuries will be able to benefit from the experiences of those who have already lived through a similar condition, thanks to a grant from Norfolk Freemasons.
The £38,000 grant will fund a support programme which will improve access to specialist advice and help recently injured people and their relatives to understand the effects of brain injuries, including memory issues, fatigue and changes in behaviour.
The programme, delivered by Headway Norfolk and Waveney, will also lead to enhanced communication and cognitive skills, and a general improvement in confidence and wellbeing.
Mandy Hathway was just 20 years old, when she suffered an uncommon type of stroke which left her with a brain injury and facing serious surgery.
Now, after joining Headway, she is working as a support worker with the charity and has drawn on her experiences to develop a memory tool kit to help others.
And Chris Clark, manager of the charity's Norwich centre, also has his own experience after he suffered a traumatic brain injury in February 2012.
Recent client, Mike Palmer, said: 'Having support from the likes of Chris, Mandy and others has made all the difference to me in understanding my condition and what I can do to adjust to my new circumstances and how I can work to get better. I am now keen to share my own experience to support others.'
The grant from Norfolk Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends from across England and Wales.
Laura Jones, Headway Norfolk and Waveney chief executive, said: 'We're very grateful to Norfolk Freemasons for their generous grant. Over 5,000 people across Norfolk and Waveney will acquire a new brain injury every year, many as the result of a stroke. Our new programmes will help both with their continuing recovery but also reduce the isolation that so often affects patients and their carers.'
Stephen Allen from Norfolk Freemasons added: 'We're very pleased to be able to help Headway Norfolk in their work to support people living with brain injuries. There is so much that can be done to improve their quality of life and Headway is helping to make up for the severe lack of support available in the community.'
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