Headway Salford celebrates ‘remarkable work’ as event raises £2,800

The brain injury charity Headway Salford has raised nearly £3,000 following a special event last week. 

At the AJ Bell Stadium last Thursday (June 13), Headway Salford, Trafford and North Manchester hosted their second annual celebration. 

Comedy and community were central aspects of the night. Local comic Ben Shevlin – who has lived with a brain injury for 20 years – performed two sets as over a hundred people gathered in the venue to celebrate. 

The celebration rose over £2,800. This money goes directly to supporting the members at Headway.  

Network manager Sam Ashcroft said the night is an “opportunity to bring both Headway members and those have supported us in a room to praise and celebrate the remarkable work that has been achieved.”  

The highlight of the celebration was the launch of the member video. Kat Whitemoss, Headway Salford’s Communications Manager, said: “It shows all our members chatting about what Headway means to them.”  

Daniel Bamber, who won the Outstanding Contribution Award for his fundraising, contributed to the video as the reason he participated in a triathlon for Headway. 

Off the stage, Shevlin said it was “so important” for everyone with brain injury to seek support from Headway.  

Guests came from various industries, all supporting people with brain injuries.  

Dr Helen Newton shared that the work of Headway has inspired her to recognise the importance of peer support. She said: “Clients have somewhere to be themselves and continue with their social networks.” 

“It’s a great charity, it does wonderful work,” said Lesley Herbertson, of Hugh James law firm. “I thought the film footage was really impressive.” 

Barrister Alex Poole found that “you can see the difference Headway makes.” 

Sam Ashcroft stated that the “weird and wacky fundraising” is “vital” to keep Headway running. 

She added: “With the cost-of-living crisis, fundraising has been a little bit more difficult – especially post-pandemic. 

“The more fundraising money we’re getting, the more services we can offer and the more members we can accept into groups.” 

This month, seven people will parachute from 15,000 feet for Headway, which has so far raised over £3000. And in September, a group will ‘Walk The Big One’ in Blackpool – climbing a narrow staircase 235 feet high.