We have a range of services for your family member with a brain injury. But we also have support services specifically for you too. We would encourage you to avail of these services because it can offer the support and information that you need. Brain Injury services for families include education, counselling, support groups and a helpline.
The challenge of brain injury
Every family’s experience of a brain injury is different. Each family copes in different ways and in the best way possible. There may be times when you as an individual or family are struggling and other times when the journey is not as bumpy.
It can be challenging as a family member to support your loved one. There are many feelings and emotions as well as the practical details that come with a Brain Injury. This is a new experience for you and your loved one. It can feel at times that you are navigating choppy waters alone. We hope in this section that you will find the information on the services which will help make the journey less difficult.
Services for families
- We offer education, individual and group supports for family members, including psychological support, in some of our centres. These are for family members over 18 years of age. You can apply here
- We operate an Information and Support helpline which you can call on 1800 400 478 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday or email info@headway.ie. The team will offer you the support and information you need and signpost you to services if you need that information.
- In Cork, we have a Social Work service which can provide support and assistance to family members. This service is also available to people with brain injury.
- We offer Family Support Groups in some of our Centres. Please contact the Information and Support Line on 1800 400 478 Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm or info@headway.ie They will be happy to give you details on how to attend.
- Other organisations may be running events for family members too. Contact Headway’s Helpline 1800 400 478 Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. They will be happy to help you.
Resources
- We have produced several support guides which we hope can help you understand the path ahead. Specifically available to you are the Family Guide to Brain Injury; a Teenager’s Guide; and a Children’s Guide. Please see Information for Family Members page for further details of these booklets.
- We also have a leaflet called Getting What you Need after a brain injury which lists and gives contact details for organisations that offer useful services to people with a brain injury and their family members.
How to apply for family support
If you are unsure about what kind of help you need or would like to discuss your situation, please talk to us and we can point you in the right direction or provide you with some information and a listening ear.
To apply for family support services, download and complete the application form “Services for Family Members” on our Apply for Services page and we will contact you with further information.
Other organizations that may be able to help
HSE The HSE provides Health Services in Ireland. On this website you will be able to find information on services in your area and how to contact them.
Acquired Brain Injury Ireland’s On With Life Programme. This will give you a link to online support groupsfor family members that Acquired Brain Injury Ireland run.
Irish Heart. On this website you will be able to find information about stroke and also the services that Irish Heart provide to Stroke survivors and their families.