Supporting people with brain injuries during coronavirus

It is an incredibly challenging time for people living with serious brain injuries and their families. Of course, COVID-19 has impacted all our lives, but it is particularly difficult for brain injury survivors.

As the charity Headway UK points out, routine is very important to people living with the long-term effects of brain injury. Social isolation means that it is not always possible for all routines to continue.

In some cases, this can worsen the behavioural, emotional, and psychological effects of brain injury, putting families and carers under greater pressure.

For those with the most severe brain injuries who require a lot of care and support, they may be particularly at risk from respiratory infections, which makes it even more stressful for loved ones and carers.

Some brain injury survivors may have cognitive issues which affects thoughts and understanding. This may mean that they do not understand the coronavirus situation and the need for social distancing rules and self-isolation measures.

Support for people with brain injuries

The good news is that there is support available for people with brain injuries and their families.

Headway UK provides an invaluable source of information and advice for those living with brain injuries, their loved ones, and their carers.

There is lots of up-to-date coronavirus support on the Headway UK website including top tips on coping with self-isolation, advice on managing mental health and information on accessing food and essentials if you are vulnerable.

While Headway groups have had to suspend many of their face-to-face services in accordance with the Government’s advice, the charity is determined to do all they can to find alternative ways to support those who rely on their help.

The Headway UK helpline remains open to anyone who requires support or information about brain injury.

You can get in touch by calling 0808 800 2244 or emailing helpline@headway.org.uk.

While the team cannot answer specific medical questions about coronavirus, they can offer reassurance and a friendly voice.

In the South West, Headway Swindon has temporarily closed its doors, but its staff are still working hard to support brain injury clients and carers and others in the community affected by brain injury.

If you are in need of support, are feeling lonely or have any enquiries, you can call the Headway Swindon team on 01793 674820 Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm or email info@headwayswindon.org.uk.

Specialist legal help always at hand

If you or a family member has suffered a brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, Novum Law’s team of expert brain injury solicitors are here to provide specialist advice and support.

There are strict time limits for making legal claims for compensation, so it is important to get in touch with a specialist solicitor without delay.

It is ‘business as usual’ at Novum Law. While our offices remain closed for the time being, our dedicated brain injury solicitors are working from home and continue to provide a high level of service to new and existing clients.

We are still taking on new brain injury compensation claims on a No Win No Fee basis and our expert solicitors are available to offer free, no-obligation advice to clients, or their families, by telephone on 0800 884 0777, email info@novumlaw.com or via video call on request.