Samantha Ashcroft wins the Headway Extra Mile Award 2025

Sponsored by Irwin Mitchell

The Headway Annual Awards is the biggest event in Headway’s calendar. It’s a day for celebrating the dedication, growth and outstanding achievements of brain injury survivors, carers, volunteers, and others in the Headway community across the United Kingdom.

Here we introduce to you the three inspirational finalists who were shortlisted for this category.

WINNER: Samantha Ashcroft – Blackpool, Lancashire

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 operations and coordinate activities. Sam is highly knowledgeable about the benefits system and actively seeks out the latest training and guidance to support members.

In 2010, when Headway Salford, Trafford and North Manchester faced significant challenges, Sam revitalised the charity by recruiting a new Board of Trustees, organising day-centre activities, and raising its profile through a new website, social media, and annual fundraising events.

Kat Whitemoss, Communications Manager for both branches, nominated Sam, saying:

Tracie Finnegan – Worcester

Tracie has been a cornerstone of Headway Worcestershire since 2002, starting as an Outreach Support Worker before moving into management. In 2006, she stepped into the role of Deputy Director as maternity cover, and her impact was so significant that the position became permanent in 2008.

Mandie Fitzgerald, CEO at Headway Worcestershire, nominated Tracie for her exceptional leadership and dedication, saying:

Kim Hunter – Washington, Tyne and Wear

Kim, Business and Community Development Manager at Headway Wearside, began her career in the charity sector in 1989 and set up a brain injury group in 2006. She started volunteering at Headway Wearside in 2009 when the branch launched, and in 2012, she was appointed to her current role.

Kim has been integral in organising events, therapies, activities, Christmas meals, lunch clubs, and fundraising initiatives. During the COVID pandemic, she ensured members stayed connected by arranging food parcels and activity packs to combat isolation.

Recently, Kim helped raise over £4,000 for the charity at a major fundraiser at STACK Seaburn in Sunderland.

Paul Brown, Chair of Headway Wearside, nominated Kim, describing her as “an unsung hero who goes above and beyond for members.”