Congratulations to Oxford Head Injury Services ABI Navigator Sharon Bond

We’re proud to announce that our outstanding Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Navigator, Sharon Bond, has been awarded the Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP), Specialist Care Award.

Sharon is an invaluable member of our team showing warmth, dedication and expertise in supporting people in our community affected by acquired brain injury. Her commitment to advocate for our service users, to understand and help navigate their unique challenges and goals is inspiring, and her work continues to profoundly impact the lives of people with brain injuries and their families.

Sharon believes that involving the family in the person’s rehabilitation and providing emotional and practical support to caregivers can aid recovery and significantly improve results.

When Patrick had a stroke in 2018, it affected his speech, movement and vision. Conversations became difficult, walking was challenging and he found himself staying home more and more. Sharon worked alongside Patrick who took time to understand what mattered most to him. Together, they developed a rehabilitation plan that fitted around Patrick’s interests and goals. This included trips to the library to practice speaking through reading and gradually building up his walking confidence in familiar spaces. Sharon also arranged for Patrick to receive a shoe plinth, a simple but effective aid that helped his mobility and balance.

Patrick says: “Sharon has changed my life – I wouldn’t go anywhere before she started to support me. I could barely put words together when we started, and now I feel part of my local community again. Walking properly has made such a difference. I’ve made friends and my family can’t believe the improvements in my speech – I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without Sharon.”

Michelle Koukoullis, our joint Chief Executive, says: “Sharon’s dedication and passion consistently inspires everyone around her. This award is a well-deserved recognition of the incredible impact she’s made, and we couldn’t be prouder to have her as part of the team.”

We’re sure our whole community will join us in congratulating Sharon on this very well-deserved and meaningful award.