Headway charity appealing for volunteers at Rednal centre

Headway has launched a volunteer drive, targeting those aged over 16 with a few hours or a day to spare on a regular basis.

The charity needs help with its ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) clients at Leighton House in Chapel Rise, Rednal which may involve making hot drinks, chatting to clients or playing games during break/lunch times, supporting clients during sessions with reading, writing or speech and offering physical help with craft or computer work.

Sue Tyler, CEO at Headway Birmingham and Solihull, said: “Traditionally, we’ve had a large pool of volunteers who have made an enormous difference to the charity, helping us achieve the high levels we aim for in all we do.

“However, volunteer numbers dwindled during COVID and have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels”.

Jade Foxall, ABI Co-ordinator at Headway, said: “Volunteers make such a difference in our hubs, from students who are looking to gain experience before heading into the world of work, to others who may have retired but want to give something back.

Dave Finlow, who has volunteered at Leighton House for several years, said he learns a lot from the clients. 

“I thought volunteering would be about giving back but it’s actually about receiving, too," added Dave.

Lily Parsons. (Image: Headway.)

Lily Parsons also volunteers with Headway and has been with the charity since it was first formed. Her daughter has a brain injury and attends Leighton House.

She said: “You learn a lot from volunteering and it’s great for me, giving me structure to my week and bringing me immense satisfaction.

"It’s also a small payback for the help Headway gives my daughter.”

For more information on the volunteering roles at Headway email Donna Rowe on personnel@headway-bs.org.uk or call 0121 457 7541.