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Over 300,000 people in Britain work in the agricultural sector today. Many farmers and farm workers were raised in farming families or communities and are proud of the rewarding work...
It was wetsuits at the ready recently when I took part in a special surfing day for individuals with brain injuries and their families.
Organised by The Silverlining, an amazing charity which encourages and supports brain injured people to participate in fantastic activities, events and challenges, I was asked to come along and get stuck into a bit of surfing at the stunning Woolacombe Bay in North Devon.
Not one to ever turn down a challenge, I happily donned my wetsuit and enjoyed my first ever surfing lesson with Ben Ridd, one of our most inspirational clients, who has proved time and time again over the years, since his terrifying power boating accident as a plucky 13 year old, that having a severe brain injury doesn’t have to stop you doing the things you love.
I think it’s safe to say that Ben’s surfing skills were streets ahead of my attempts in the water but a great time was had by all!
Charities such as The Silverlining have a huge role to play in the support of individuals with acquired brain injuries. A brain injury can be extremely isolating for those affected as well as their families and carers.
The Silverlining charity, with its focus on inclusion, aims to provide purpose after brain injury, helping clients or ‘silverliners’ to develop by giving them structured goals and opportunities to celebrate achievements as well as forge new friendships and inspire others.
Silverliners are encouraged to give back to the local community by raising money for good causes, supporting community projects or by offering education about brain injury prevention. Charities such as: British Heart Foundation, Air Ambulance, Help for Heroes, Barnados, Headway and the Alzheimer’s Society are just some of the good causes the Silverliners continue to support.
I know Silverliners, such as Ben, benefit hugely from the opportunity to really push themselves and try different physical challenges and activities and to accomplish wonderful things while helping and supporting others.
It’s not only humbling but truly inspirational to be part of a Silverlining day and if you or a family member is living with a brain injury, I’d encourage you to get involved – you never know what you might end up doing!
Find out more about The Silverlining
