Headway Annual Awards 2026: Meet your finalists!

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 Thursday 10 December 2026. This year the Headway Awards headline sponsor is Charles Stanley Raymond James.

Here we introduce to you the 12 inspirational finalists across our four 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 - sponsored by EMG Solicitors

• Stephen McAleese Volunteer of the Year Award - sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP

• Extra Mile Award - sponsored by Irwin Mitchell

Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year Award

Sponsored by Slater & Gordon

An award to celebrate the courage of brain injury survivors whose achievements in the face of adversity serve as a shining example to us all.

David ‘Jacko’ Jackson
Gwynedd, North Wales

Earlier this year, Jacko embarked on an extraordinary challenge: running 100 ultramarathons in 100 consecutive days. Through Mission IN-possible, he raised more than £45,000 while covering over 5,500km and bringing together 855 supporters along the way.

His efforts earned him a Guinness World Record for the most consecutive ultramarathons run by a male. Throughout the challenge, Jacko used every mile to raise awareness of brain injury and the work of the two charities he was supporting, Headway UK and Head for Change.

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is that Jacko is a brain injury survivor himself. In 2013, his professional rugby career ended abruptly after he sustained a traumatic brain injury and had a seizure during a pre-season training session. The recovery that followed was long and challenging, involving fatigue, sensitivity to light and cognitive difficulties.

Having experienced the impact of brain injury first-hand, Jacko was determined to give back and support others facing similar challenges.

Several supporters nominated him for the accolade, praising his “unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by brain injury.”

Ed Marshall
Clanfield, Hampshire

Dad-of-four Ed sustained a traumatic brain injury in a road traffic accident in 2013, when another driver caught the rear of his van, spinning it into oncoming traffic.

The former plasterer and bricklayer broke several bones in the accident, punctured his lungs, lacerated his liver and sustained a brain injury.

Ed spent weeks in a coma before recovering in hospital and beginning rehabilitation.

Like many survivors, Ed experienced a loss of confidence and identity following his accident, but with the right support, he has worked incredibly hard to rebuild his life.

He eventually found Headway Portsmouth & South East Hampshire, and now leads the charity’s Young Adults Group, where he uses his experience to support dozens of survivors, aged 18 to 30.

Ed was nominated for the award by Headway Portsmouth & South East Hampshire CEO, Jo Dallas.

Jo said: “Ed is a role model for other young people with brain injuries, showing them that there is life beyond their diagnosis.”

Jake Cooper
Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Jake sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2017, when, as a passenger, the car he was travelling in crashed into a tree at 70mph.

Aged just 21 at the time, he sustained severe injuries to his lower limbs, fractures to his spine and multiple blood clots.

He was placed into an induced coma and spent seven weeks in hospital, with the surgeries that followed spanning several years. He experienced significant challenges with his mobility, pain, fatigue and cognitive function.

Jake was an apprentice electrician at the time but struggled to return to the trade. In 2024, supported by his occupational therapist at Rehabilitate Therapy, he took the leap of pursuing a new career.

Jake qualified as a personal trainer at the beginning of 2025 and uses his experience of retraining in the gym post-injury to support and inspire others.

Jake was nominated for the award by his occupational therapist, Sara Grimshaw at Rehabilitate Therapy.

Sara said: “Jake turned his own recovery into a second career, built to help others recover.”

Carer of the Year Award

Sponsored by EMG Solicitors

This award recognises contributions from individuals who have made an enormous difference to brain injury survivors on a voluntary basis.

Alix Trask
South Wales

Mum-of-two Alix is the main carer for husband James, who sustained a brain haemorrhage in 2022 at the age of 35.

James uses an electric wheelchair and requires significant support with daily tasks. He lives with hydrocephalus (a build up of excess cerebrospinal fluid), epilepsy and dysphasia, a language disorder that affects speech production and comprehension.

He is also nil by mouth, and receives all food, water and medication via a PEG tube.

Alix has been described as a “steadfast advocate” for James, ensuring he receives the medical care and support he requires.

James attends Headway Cardiff & South East Wales every week, and through a Carers Grant, the charity has enabled the Trask family to enjoy Christmas Pantomimes together for the last three years.

Alix was nominated for the award by Rebecca Pearce, Chief Executive Officer at Headway Cardiff & South East Wales.

Rebecca said: “The strength Alix has needed to draw on to be a wonderful mother and to enable James to be a wonderful father, must be huge, as must her selfless capacity for love.”

Leasa Ward
Rotherham

While mum-of-three Leasa insists she is “only doing what any mother would do”, those around her say her unwavering support have been instrumental in helping son, Mitchell, through the challenges he has faced since sustaining two brain injuries.

Mitchell was nine when he was hit by a car in 2011, causing his first brain injury.

He experienced a second brain injury in October 2025 after having a seizure in a shop, falling and hitting his head. The incident caused an artery to burst and a blood clot to form on his brain, requiring emergency neurosurgery. He is still recovering.

Despite these challenges, Mitchell loves to try new activities and has enjoyed skiing, swimming, gardening, upcycling and DJ lessons over the years.

Leasa was nominated by Mitchell’s occupational therapist, Suzanna Anthony, who describes her as “part mum, part carer and part superhero”.

Suze said: “Superheroes never give up, always believe better days are ahead, and that is Leasa. As well as caring for Mitchell, she cares for everyone around her, whether that’s chatting with other hospital visitors or giving her time to support Mitchell’s friends who also have additional needs.” 

Peter Redhead
Isle of Wight

Peter was nominated for Carer of the Year by wife Gillian, who lives with multiple brain injuries and depends on his support in many aspects of daily life.

Gillian experienced two brain haemorrhages, the first at age 31 when their son was just two years old, and the second at 49.

Over the years, the couple have also navigated the challenges of raising their disabled son, who now lives in supported accommodation.

Gillian says Peter is the person who keeps everything running. From cooking and driving to managing appointments and finances, he provides unwavering practical and emotional support.

“I still have many issues following my second haemorrhage, including problems with memory, mobility and paranoia, but Peter is always there, reassuring me and helping me work through them,” she said.

“I would not be here today if it hadn’t been for Peter. He has been my rock since the day we got married.

“I really believe he deserves an award for caring for our son and now caring for me.”

Stephen McAleese Volunteer of the Year Award

Sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP

This award recognises invaluable individuals who have made an enormous contribution to Headway on a voluntary basis.

Glenys Marriott
Kendal, Cumbria

Glenys was appointed Chairperson of volunteer-led branch Headway South Cumbria when it was established in 2012.

For over 15 years, Glenys has provided information about brain injury to those affected, sign posted members to practical support, and helped organise activities, day trips and fundraisers.

During Covid, Glenys went above and beyond to keep Headway South Cumbria members safe, supported and connected. She worked with local NHS teams to ensure vulnerable members received food packs, support, Covid tests and vaccinations. She also chaired weekly Zoom meetings for 18 months, ensuring members could stay in touch, reducing the risk of isolation.

She has done all the above and more, despite brain injury affecting her own family, as in late 2024, Glenys’ husband Ray had a stroke, who she supported through recovery.

Glenys was put forward for the award by friend and committee member Christine Wilson. 

Christine said: “Glenys has spent her lifetime dedicated to others.

“She’s simply the crème de la crème, and someone that everyone in our group can rely on.”

Kathleen Fowler
Credenhill, Herefordshire

Kath has been part of Herefordshire Headway’s story from the very beginning, volunteering since the centre was purchased from the Royal Air Force (RAF) 26 years ago.

Her connection to the building is deeply personal as her late husband Larry served in the RAF and went on to work as a chef for the charity, serving up meals to members.

Since becoming a widow, Kath has continued to give her time, kindness, and steady support to many survivors and loved ones.

Kath attends every week without fail, bringing with her a friendly smile, a listening ear, and a warmth that is felt by members, staff, and visitors alike.

Kath was put forward for the award by Herefordshire Headway’s CEO Stephen Heptinstall.

He said: “What makes Kath special is not just the length of her service, but the way she supports others. She offers a friendly smile, a listening ear, patience, and genuine care, helping members, staff, and visitors feel valued and understood.”

Lorna Walker
Telford, Shropshire

Lorna’s life changed forever in 2016 when she was diagnosed with three brain aneurysms and subsequently sustained two strokes.

Her first stroke occurred while undergoing surgery for the aneurysms, while her second came as she was returning to work and studying for her BA Honours degree in teaching, learning and mentoring practice.

While attending a rehabilitation group, Lorna noticed a lack of support for brain injury survivors in her local area. Determined to make a difference, she established her first support group for survivors.

With support from Headway Shropshire and her friend Lyndsey Davies, who nominated her for the award, Lorna now helps run two monthly support groups, giving survivors a space to share coping strategies, access support and find companionship.

A new group is set to launch in Market Drayton in January, with groups in Oswestry and Ludlow also planned. Lorna also hosts a monthly Neuro Coffee Morning.

Lyndsey said: “Lorna has helped countless individuals access the information, resources, and services they need.

“Her greatest passion has always been helping others affected by brain injury.”

Extra Mile Award

Sponsored by Irwin Mitchell Solicitors

This award celebrates the achievements and dedication of Headway staff in supporting brain injury survivors and their families and carers.

Kevin Maloney

Benfleet, South Essex

For 26 years, Kevin has been a dedicated presence at Headway Essex, supporting people affected by brain injury and their families through a variety of roles.

As a case worker and Brain Injury Advisor, he has helped countless individuals access vital support, benefits and services, while raising awareness of brain injury across communities, schools and hospitals.

Kevin has developed and delivered education programmes, including the charity's Brain Injury and Me and Don't Forget About Me courses, empowering both survivors and unpaid carers.

His commitment and expertise have made a lasting difference to service users, carers, healthcare professionals and colleagues across Essex.

Kevin was put forward for the award by colleague and friend, Jennie Morrell.

Jennie said: “Kevin is an absolute rock to our service users and carers. Frequently referred to as 'Mr Headway' by service users and professionals, Kevin has a huge impact on every single person he meets.

“Kevin recently retired in May 2026, and all of us at Headway Essex believe his long service, commitment and life-changing work should be recognised as widely as possible.”

Liz Bamber

Preston, Lancashire

Liz has been described as the driving force behind Headway Central Lancashire since founding the charity in 2010, after her son sustained a life-changing traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle collision.

Rather than accept the lack of local support available at the time, Liz channelled her experience into establishing the charity, ensuring others affected by brain injury would have access to the support that her own family needed.

What began as a small support group, with one volunteer and a handful of survivors meeting monthly in a church hall, has grown under Liz's leadership into a thriving organisation supporting over 1500 families a year.

Today, the charity employs eight staff members and delivers a wide range of services, including weekly community sessions attended by more than 50 people, hospital outreach service, one-to-one appointments, and ongoing assistance for survivors, carers and families.

Liz was nominated for the award by her co-manager Laura Brown.

Laura said: “Liz has turned personal tragedy into positive change for an entire community, and her tireless commitment embodies everything the Extra Mile Award represents.”

Sadie Bratt

Rawmarsh, Rotherham

Sadie’s journey with Headway Rotherham began 22 years ago when she joined the charity as Administrative Support.

In 2017, she was promoted to Community Development & Engagement Worker, and led on developing the charity’s social activities, introducing a wider range of daytime activities including bingo, quizzes, games, seated chair exercises and more.

Sadie went on to launch the charity’s weekly Hub sessions in 2022, which attracts up to 40 members each week, providing fun, friendship and routine for those affected by brain injury.

In March 2025, Sadie became Service Manager at Headway Rotherham, “a very proud moment” in her journey with the charity, she said. 

Sadie was nominated for the award by Headway Rotherham volunteer Helen Oxley.

Helen said: “Sadie is the first point of contact for many survivors and loved ones facing life after brain injury.

“She looks after all the members and organises weekly meetings and activities so members can be together.

“Sadie is amazing in everything she does- and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of winning The Extra Mile Award than her.”