Headway Sussex

Who we are

Headway Sussex is an independent charity supporting adults across Sussex who are living with acquired brain injuries (ABI), as well as their families, friends and carers. We work with people whose injuries have resulted from trauma, stroke, brain tumours, infections, aneurysms and other neurological conditions, helping them rebuild confidence, independence and quality of life.

Every year, we support hundreds of people through a range of specialist services designed to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and promote independence. Our person-centred approach recognises that no two brain injuries are the same. We work alongside each individual to identify their goals, strengths and challenges, empowering them to achieve greater independence at every stage of their recovery.

As a local charity, we are committed to ensuring that people living with acquired brain injuries across Sussex have access to ongoing specialist support long after they leave hospital. By supporting both survivors and those closest to them, we help people navigate the lifelong impact of brain injury and enable them to live fuller, more connected lives.

Our culture and values

Our culture and values

At Headway Sussex, our culture is rooted in compassion, respect and a belief in every person’s potential to rebuild and live a meaningful life after acquired brain injury. We recognise that brain injury can change every aspect of a person’s life, and we are committed to providing support that is person-centred, consistent and empowering.

Our core values guide everything we do:

• Person-centred approach – We place each individual at the heart of our work, recognising that no two brain injuries are the same. Support is tailored to personal goals, abilities and aspirations, ensuring that people are active participants in shaping their own journey.

• Respect and dignity – We treat everyone with dignity, valuing lived experience and promoting independence wherever possible. We are mindful of the challenges people face and work in a way that preserves confidence and self-worth.

• Inclusivity and accessibility – We are committed to reducing barriers and creating welcoming, accessible spaces for all. This includes adapting communication styles, environments and activities to meet diverse needs.

• Empowerment and independence – Our work focuses on building confidence, developing skills and supporting people to regain control over their lives at their own pace.

• Collaboration and community – We work closely with families, carers, health professionals, volunteers and partner organisations to ensure joined-up support. Peer support is central to our approach, helping people feel understood and less isolated.

• Compassion and understanding – We recognise the emotional and practical impact of brain injury. Our team works with empathy, patience and a genuine commitment to supporting wellbeing.

• Integrity and professionalism – We are accountable, transparent and committed to delivering high-quality services that meet the needs of the people we support.

Our working practices reflect these values through a supportive team culture, regular reflection and continuous improvement. We prioritise open communication, shared learning and responsiveness to the evolving needs of our clients and community.

Ultimately, our culture is one of hope, resilience and connection—helping people affected by brain injury feel understood, valued and supported to move forward in their own way.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Headway Sussex is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment across all areas of our work, including our workforce, volunteers, clients and wider community. We recognise that acquired brain injury can affect anyone, and we are dedicated to ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly, with dignity and without discrimination.

We actively oppose all forms of discrimination, harassment and unfair treatment, whether based on protected characteristics or any other personal circumstance. We strive to create a culture where differences are respected and where everyone feels safe, supported and able to contribute fully.

Our approach is guided by the principles of the Equality Act 2010, and we ensure that these principles are embedded in our policies, recruitment practices, service delivery and organisational culture.

Key commitments include:

• Fair and inclusive recruitment and employment practices – We ensure that all staff and volunteers are recruited, trained and developed based on merit, skills and values, with reasonable adjustments made where needed to support accessibility.

• Accessible services and environments – We actively work to remove barriers to participation, adapting communication methods, physical environments and support approaches to meet individual needs.

• Respect for individual identity and lived experience – We recognise and value the diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives of the people we support and employ.

• Zero tolerance of discrimination – We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment or victimisation in any form. Any concerns raised are taken seriously and addressed promptly and appropriately.

• Training and awareness – We provide ongoing training and development to staff and volunteers to strengthen understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and to ensure inclusive practice is embedded in everyday work.

• Continuous improvement – We regularly review our policies and practices to ensure they remain effective, relevant and reflective of best practice.

We are committed to building a workforce and service environment that reflects the communities we serve, where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive. Inclusion is not an add-on to our work—it is fundamental to how we deliver support and achieve our mission.