Each finalist, chosen by a selection panel, will be invited along with a guest to a glittering luncheon at The Royal Lancaster in London on Friday 12 December 2025.
Here we introduce to you the 15 inspirational finalists across our five categories, recognising the dedication to brain injury survivors of Headway staff.
The Headway Annual Awards categories are:
- Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year Award– Sponsored by Slater & Gordon
- Carer of the Year Award
- Volunteer of the Year Award- Sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP
- Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award
- The Headway Extra Mile Award- sponsored by Irwin Mitchell
Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year Award
Sponsored by Slater & Gordon
This award celebrates the outstanding determination, strength, and courage of brain injury survivors
David White, Newport, Wales
“David is a true inspiration and role model. I couldn’t be prouder of him.”
– Stacey Davies, David’s partner
In September 2020, David, 33, had a fall after a paint balling day with friends, causing part of the right side of his skull to break. He was placed in a medically induced coma and spent eight weeks in hospital, undergoing two surgeries and a titanium plate placed in his skull.
After four months receiving rehabilitation, David was keen to connect with other survivors, share his experience and volunteer his time.
David created NeuroBuds, a supportive community for both brain and spinal patients, which shares regular stories, Infograms and signposts people to services.
He volunteers at his local neuro rehabilitation ward and is also a regular member of Headway Cardiff and South East Wales.
David was nominated for the accolade by his proud fiancée, Stacey Davies, who says he “faces challenges head on, with a smile on his face, and is always wanting to help others.”
Lorna Collins, Amersham, Buckinghamshire
“Being recognised and appreciated for what I have done with and after my brain injury turns the immense trauma into something life-affirming and positive.”
– Lorna Collins
Multidisciplinary artist Lorna, 43, sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) when she fell from her horse and landed on her head aged 18.
She subsequently developed several psychiatric illnesses post-injury.
An artist, writer, filmmaker, and arts educator and researcher, Lorna advocates for brain injury survivors and raises awareness with her work, A Creative Transformation - a research project and practical service for survivors, centred around the art of creativity.
She has worked with several Headway centres across the UK, developing creative opportunities for brain injury survivors, including making a film with clients at Headway Surrey.
Lorna also helped front Headway UK’s annual Action for Brain Injury (ABI) Week campaign in May, with this year’s theme ‘On a good day’ highlighting the fluctuating nature of brain injury.
Lorna was put forward for the award by several people, with nominators commenting on her “courage, strength and determination in working to help others with lived experience of brain injury.”
Samuel Robinson, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire
“I feel very lucky for the continual support and encouragement I receive from Headway and my family.”
– Samuel Robinson
Photographer and keen horticulturist Sam, 37, was diagnosed with a large craniopharyngioma aged 15. He underwent extensive surgery followed by six weeks radiotherapy.
Following further brain surgery and radiotherapy, Sam had a stroke, which caused significant left-sided weakness, speech impairment, and cognitive issues.
Despite setbacks and time away from education, Sam completed his GCSEs and A-Levels, achieving excellent results, and went on to earn an honours degree in Biomedical Science from Newcastle University.
Sam has been involved with Headway for nearly 20 years, actively advocating for the charity and helping to raise awareness of life after brain injury.
Sam helped Headway Cambridgeshire (now Headway Cambridge & Peterborough) secure £25,000 in funding, part of which was selling a calendar of his photography, with all proceeds going to the charity. Sam also raised £10,000 for the horticultural charity he attends on a weekly basis.
Sam was nominated for award by his proud mum Mary-Jane, who said he “embodies triumph over adversity”.
Carer of the Year Award
This award celebrates the outstanding care and support given by or to someone with a brain injury.
Jo Bacon, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
“I feel so flattered and privileged to have been nominated for this.”
– Jo Bacon
Jo, 62, has been put forward for Carer of the Year for not only the full-time care she provided for her husband, but for also volunteering her spare time to help other brain injury survivors.
Jo’s husband Michael, 76, attends Headway Cambridgeshire and Peterborough after sustaining an intracranial haemorrhage in 2018.
Car-enthusiast Michael requires help with everyday tasks including getting dressed, being hoisted from his bed, washed, and feeding.
Jo cared for husband-of-38-years Michael on her own for over five and a half years, taking early retirement to do so.
She is also now volunteering her personal time to support other clients at the charity, including volunteering on a Friday afternoon during the charity’s social session, where she’ll socialise with clients, play board games, help with a quiz or a cognitive task.
Anna Mumford, Senior Support Worker at Headway Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, put Jo forward for the award, describing her as “an amazing lady” who “always offers immense kindness”.
Lorna Still, Beckton, East London
“I was emotional when I found out I had been nominated. I’m so grateful for the support network I have.”
- Lorna Still
Wife and mum-of-six Lorna, 34, cares for husband Ali, 26, after he sustained a brain injury during an electric bike accident in 2022, when he collided with another cyclist and landed on his head.
Ali underwent a craniotomy and had half of skull on the lefthand side removed. He now lives with complex medical problems, including aphasia (a communication disorder), epilepsy, and is partially blind and deaf in the right ear.
Lorna was 16 weeks pregnant with their youngest child when Ali had his accident, giving birth whilst her husband-of-seven-years was still in hospital.
Ali attends a weekly evening session at Headway East London, where he socialises with other survivors and takes part in activities.
Lorna’s friends Katie and Danielle, nominated her for the accolade for her “strength” and continually giving to others.
Leanne-Francis Seare, Ashford, Kent
“Leanne’s unwavering strength and determination in the face of overwhelming odds inspire everyone who meets her."
- Martin S Seare, Leanne’s father
Leanne, 21, was just 11 years old when a devastating car accident changed her life forever, leaving her with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Years later, doctors discovered an arachnoid cyst pressing on her frontal lobe, leading to numerous neurological and physical challenges.
The accident stole her ability to read, write, hold a pencil, retain information, and even process speech.
But through sheer determination, she relearned, passing her English and Maths GCSEs, and is now pursuing her dream of becoming a midwife by studying a foundation degree at Canterbury University.
Incredibly, Leanne’s bravery extends beyond her own healing. Last year, she became the primary carer for her dad, Martin.
Martin, who nominated her for the award, said: “She is only 21 years old, lives with a brain injury, chronic fatigue, and ongoing trauma - and yet she looks after me. Leanne never seeks recognition, yet she constantly lifts those around her. We are so proud to call her our daughter.”
Volunteer of the Year Award
Sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP
This award celebrates the outstanding contribution of an individual to Headway in their community.
Alec Williams, Cardiff, Wales
“We can always rely on him to be the first to approach new members to make sure they feel welcome and at home.”
– Rebecca Pearce, CEO of Headway Cardiff and South East Wales
Brian injury survivor Alec, 61, has been nominated for Volunteer of the Year for his willingness to help others.
Alec sustained a TBI after he was assaulted outside a nightclub in June 2003 and was left on life-support.
Following his injury, Alec joined Headway Cardiff and South East Wales and has been a Support Volunteer for 20 years at the charity’s weekly group session.
In his role, Alec supports clients to socialise, take part in activities and develop and maintain skills.
One recent scenario saw Alec spring into action to help a fellow client after he became concerned about the client’s no-show at the centre.
Alec found the client collapsed on the bathroom floor at his flat and waited with him for the ambulance. Alec and his wife Laila regularly visited him in hospital, taking care of his washing, and worked with Headway Cardiff and South East Wales to ensure a smooth discharge back home with the support required.
Graham Geddes, Fife, Scotland
“I was really shocked when I heard I was a finalist! It really means a lot to me.”
- Graham Geddes
Graham set up volunteer-led branch Headway North East Fife in September 2024, to provide information, support and companionship to brain injury survivors across the St Andrews and wider North East Fife area.
Graham started out as a volunteer at Headway Perth and Kinross and was inspired to set up the North East Fife branch after noticing a gap in available and accessible support in the area.
Graham was put forward for the award by two members, Karen Wallace and Donalda Annan.
Karen said: “Graham has our branch at heart in every way possible. From providing information, planning sessions and activities, and raising the branch’s profile to supporting more people affected by brain injury in the area - nothing is too much trouble for him.”
Donalda added: “He has done amazingly well at setting up Headway North East Fife and ensuring there is a service for survivors like myself in the area.”
Rachel Lees, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear
“It is so lovely to feel valued and I am honoured to have even been nominated for this award!”
– Rachel Lees
Occupational therapist Rachel has been a committed member of Headway Tyneside for 13 years.
Here she is not only as a trustee, clinical advisory team member, and safeguarding lead, but also a regular group leader, volunteering to deliver evening social group sessions for members.
Rachel, who supports clients with her work at Neural Pathways, was instrumental in setting up Headway Tyneside’s weekly Tuesday Night Social Group 13 years ago, a group that the charity runs, in collaboration with the NHS.
In her trustee role at the charity, Rachel brings to committee meetings her in-depth knowledge of Headway Tyneside members, and their responses to the activities and initiatives that they offer.
Jo Wallis, Specialist Clinical Lead at Headway Tyneside, put Rachel forward for the award, and said she is always available on the end of the phone, offering a listening ear.
Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award
This award celebrates the outstanding contributions to the work of Headway made by survivors, carers, volunteers and supporters over an extended period.
Christine Wells, Scunthorpe
“Chris has worked tirelessly over the last 30 years and made such a difference to so many individuals.”
– Julie Parker, Chair of Headway Partnership North Yorkshire and Humber
Christine, 75, became a founding member of Headway Scunthorpe and North Lincolnshire in 1998 after seeing the demand for additional support for brain injury survivors, their family, friends and carers in the area.
Chris retired from her occupational therapist role eight years ago, but continued with the branch across various areas, including using her OT skills to support people, organising meetings and ensuring the branch maintained funds by holding events, coffee mornings, afternoon teas, summer fetes, and hosting raffles and tombolas.
Chris has also been an active member of the Humber and North Yorkshire ABI Network, attending meetings and day conferences, promoting Headway and the resources it can offer both locally and nationally.
Julie Parker, Occupational Therapist and Chair of Headway Partnership North Yorkshire and Humber, nominated Chris for her compassion and client-centred work.
Julie said: “Chris has ensured that members receive the services they need to help them face life after brain injury, and made sure they did not feel alone.”
David and Christine Wilson, Barrow-in-Furness
“Christine and David are the essence of volunteer exemplars.”
- Glenys Marriott, chairperson of Headway South Cumbria
David, 70, and Christine, 68, are Fundraising Officers at Headway South Cumbria and have been committee members at the branch for over 14 years, after their son Chris sustained a TBI following a brutal attack while on holiday in 2010.
At Headway South Cumbria, David and Christine offer individual support for members and organise fundraising events, coffee mornings, craft fairs and toy tombolas.
They contribute to leading the Barrow-based group and organising attendance at Look Ahead in the North (LAN)- an annual residential weekend for members of the Headway groups and branches in the North East and Cumbria.
Christine’s artistic skills are always put to good use during craft projects and activities, while Dave is key to the success of the hydrotherapy group.
And together they make Headway South Cumbria’s Christmas party a huge success, with Dave dressing up to become Father Christmas!
The duo were nominated by Glenys Marriott, chairperson of Headway South Cumbria, who said they go “over and above everyone’s expectations”.
John Caulfield, County Durham
“I am humbled that people have taken the time to nominate me for this award.”
– John Caulfield
John has been a carer for his son John Junior since 2004, when he sustained a TBI aged 18 following an horrific road traffic accident.
Following John Junior’s TBI, John and wife Angela were involved with the steering group to set up a support group which eventually became Headway County Durham, providing support for brain injury survivors and their loved ones in the area.
Since then, John has been a volunteer, committee member, trustee and driving force at Headway County Durham, arranging and attending regular monthly drop-in services and advocating for brain injury survivors and their families.
He is also heavily involved in the running of the 'Look Ahead in the North' residential weekend at the Calvert Trust, Northumberland, where survivors, family members, carers and volunteers enjoy a fun filled weekend of outdoor activities and workshops.
Warren Maxwell, John’s former colleague, nominated John for the accolade, adding he is “never without a cheerful outlook and sensible suggestions.”
The Headway Extra Mile Award
Sponsored by Irwin Mitchell
This award celebrates the achievements and dedication of Headway staff in supporting brain injury survivors and their families and carers.
Kim Hunter, Washington, Tyne and Wear
“It’s fantastic to be nominated in the first place, and I feel really privileged.”
– Kim Hunter
Kim, Business and Community Development Manager at Headway Wearside, started her career in the charity sector in 1989 and set up a brain injury group in 2006. She then began volunteering at Headway Wearside in 2009 when they launched.
In 2012, Kim, 58, was appointed to the position of Business and Community Development Manager, and has been integral in organising events, therapies, activities, Christmas meals, lunch clubs, fundraising and events.
During the COVID pandemic, Headway Wearside operated remotely throughout, with Kim organising food parcels and activity packs for Headway members across Sunderland and surrounding areas, in a bid to combat social isolation.
Kim was also recently involved in a large fundraiser at shipping container village STACK Seaburn, in Sunderland, where over £4,000 was raised for the charity.
Kim was put forward for the award by Headway Wearside Chair, Paul Brown.
He said: “Kim is an unsung hero who goes above and beyond for members.”
Samantha Ashcroft, Blackpool, Lancashire
“To find out I’d not only been nominated but reached the final left me truly speechless.”
– Samantha Ashcroft
Samantha joined Headway Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde in 2007 following the tragic loss of a close friend, Andrew, who passed away due to complications from a brain injury.
When Andrew’s parents founded the charity, they called on Sam to help manage the charity and coordinate activities for its members.
Sam is a font of knowledge when it comes to the benefits system, helping survivors and loved ones navigate application processes, and actively seeks out the latest training, guidance, and developments in brain injury care.
When Headway Salford, Trafford and North Manchester faced great difficulty in 2010, Sam turned the charity around by recruiting a new Board of Trustees, organising regular day-centre activities for members, and raising the charity’s profile via a new website, social media updates and annual fundraising events.
Kat Whitemoss, Communications Manager for Headway Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde and Headway Salford, Trafford and North Manchester, nominated Sam for the award.
Tracie Finnegan, Worcester, Worcestershire
“Thank you to my CEO Mandie Fitzgerald for the nomination- it means the world.”
– Tracie Finnegan
Tracie has been an integral part of Headway Worcestershire since 2002, when she joined as an Outreach Support Worker.
She progressed into a managerial role soon after, and in 2006 she stepped into the position of Deputy Director as maternity cover.
Her impact in this role was so significant that, even after the original post-holder returned, Tracie’s contribution was recognised as exceptional. As a result, her position was extended in 2007 and made permanent in 2008.
Mandie Fitzgerald, CEO at Headway Worcestershire, nominated Tracie for the accolade, sponsored by Irwin Mitchell, and said she is “always leading from the front”.
Mandie said: “Tracie’s selflessness and dedication go far beyond her job description, and her actions speak volumes about her character and commitment to the people we serve.”
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