Headway Brain Injury Identity Card

Who can apply for a Brain Injury Identity Card?

The Brain Injury Identity Card is available to anyone in the UK aged 18 and over with a verifiable brain injury.

For those under 18, please visit the Child Brain Injury Trust for their dedicated card.

Why carry the card

Brain injury can affect memory, speech, balance, fatigue levels, mood, and behaviour – often in ways that aren’t immediately visible. This can lead to misunderstandings in both daily and emergency situations.

The Brain Injury Identity Card:

• Clearly states you have a brain injury and lists how it affects you.

• Is recognised by police forces, NHS staff, and other public and private service providers across the UK.

• Helps you get understanding and support when it matters most.

• Reduces the need to explain your injury repeatedly.

• Provides a direct number for specialist criminal law solicitors trained in brain injury awareness.

• It is free of charge.

What's on the card

Front of the card:

• Your name

• Your photo

• Confirmation that you have a brain injury

• Statements of how your brain injury may affect you (e.g., memory, speech, balance, fatigue)

• Headway logo and official recognition statement from the NPCC and Police Scotland. Applicants from Northern Ireland will have two Headway logos.

• 24-hour solicitor helpline number: 0800 140 4031 – for criminal legal advice from solicitors trained in brain injury awareness

Reverse of the card:

• Headway’s freephone helpline number: 0808 800 2244 – for brain injury advice and emotional support

Only essential information is displayed - enough to identify and support you, without sharing unnecessary personal details.

How to apply

You will need to provide:

1. A passport-style photo

In colour, and in focus
Plain background
No sunglasses (Prescription glasses allowed)
No head covering unless for medical or religious reasons 

2. Proof of brain injury

Medical or hospital documentation confirming your diagnosis 
If you don't have evidence, please consent to us contacting your GP by downloading and completing this form. 

Alternatively, contact the ID card team on:
Phone: 0115 695 0372
Email: idcard@headway.org.uk

To start your application, complete the eligibility questions below. 

Our online application form is the fastest and simplest way to apply, however you can also download a printable copy of the application form. Documents sent by post will be securely disposed of unless you request their return.

Replacement cards

If your card is lost, stolen or damaged, a new application is not required. 

Email idcard@headway.org.uk with:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Current address