'That's what Stephen does' - The man who battled his own brain injury to help others for the last 40 years

The 58-year-old has given his time to Headway South Manchester and Stockport for 40 years. Stephen began his work in 1983, shortly after the charity was created. 

Stephen’s own brain injury, caused by a fall and a resulting blood cot, meant he could no longer work. Following his injury, Stephen was unconscious for three and a half weeks, after which he had extensive speech and motor issues. Stephen soon started to devote his time to Headway and the empowerment of its members, as well as supporting the charity with fundraising activities to ensure sustainability for the future.

A dedication to the charity has led Stephen to becoming one of just three finalists for Headway’s Volunteer of the Year Award.  The accolade, sponsored by law firm Anthony Gold, will be presented by Headway – the brain injury association at its glittering awards ceremony on December 5 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in Mayfair.

Stephen was nominated for the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award by Headway South Manchester and Stockport Communications Manager, Kat Whitemoss. 

Kat said: “Stephen is the absolute backbone of Headway South Manchester and Stockport. He is involved in all aspects of the charity and supports everyone who walks through the door in need of kindness and care.”

In 2020, the group were unable to hold their regular weekly drop-in session, which meant this vitally important lifeline wasn't available for those brain injury survivors who needed support.

“Stephen made it his mission to get donated Christmas presents from local businesses,” Kat said. “He then dressed as Santa, drove to over 80 homes and delivered these presents to members on their doorstep. All whilst checking in (socially distanced) with them about how they were getting on. This greatly lifted spirits and showed our members they weren’t alone. And that’s what Stephen does.”

Headway South Manchester and Stockport, who recently celebrated their 40th birthday – with Stephen a major part - supports brain injury survivors and their families and carers. Stephen has lived experience of life with a brain injury and is able to empathise with members at the Headway group, no matter what stage of the journey they are at.

Stephen said of the nomination: “I was absolutely shocked when I heard I’d been put forward! It is an honour, and a real celebration for the Headway South Manchester and Stockport after 40 years.”

Kat said: “Stephen is a friendly, kind, welcoming face for all members. He is also a constant presence at Headway South Manchester and Stockport; the Board of Trustees has changed, our members have changed, but through it all Stephen remains the backbone of the service we provide – helping improve the quality of life of those with a brain injury. Stephen’s involvement has helped us greatly over the past 40 years of Headway South Manchester and Stockport. We look forward to the future of the charity and the people we can support.”