A brain injury charity in Redruth celebrated its one-year anniversary of re-opening post-pandemic in the best way possible – with a party.  

Headway Cornwall, which based at Redruth Community Centre, supports brain injury survivors, their families and carers in the aftermath of a brain injury, through weekly support groups.  

The group enjoyed games and party food to celebrate the day centre’s birthday. 

Stephanie Belshaw, day service administrator at Headway Cornwall, led the celebrations.  

She said: “It has been a difficult couple of years for our community.  When 2020 hit and our service users were no longer able to access the vital services we offer, we were concerned about what the future holds. 

“We’re delighted to have been open again for a year, however there is still a bit of a road ahead of us in terms of fundraising needs.”  

More than 350,000 people every year are admitted to hospital with a brain injury. 

Headway Cornwall relies on funding to provide essential services for brain injury survivors in Cornwall, such as weekly support groups. 

Headway Cornwall currently supports six regular clients but there are many more across Cornwall who are in need of support following a brain injury.  

Heidi, who supports Tina to attend Headway Cornwall said: “It’s nice for Tina to meet up with people and enjoy the social aspect and joining in with the games.” 

Ron likes to join in with the group as it ‘stimulates and occupies his mind’. Ron’s wife, Jenny, said: “This group is wonderful for Ron, he gets a lot out of verbalising with others.”   

“And, to be truthful, visiting Headway Cornwall gives me a break out of the house and gives us a great opportunity to socialise and make new friends.” 

Jenny, who supports her husband Peter to attend Headway, said “Peter likes coming to the Headway groups. He participates in the group as it stimulates him. It’s good for us to both mix with everyone and see Peter enjoying himself. We both enjoy the banter and the company.” 

Stephanie concluded: “We hope that this milestone serves as a reminder of the good Headway Cornwall does for our county.”  

• Anyone who would like to know more about Headway Cornwall, visit www.headwaycornwall.org.uk