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Trustees needed for Oxfordshire based Charity
Oxford Head Injury Services (formerly Headway Oxfordshire) is seeking to appoint up to 4 new trustees. Our Board of Trustees wishes to broaden its range of skills and backgrounds, as we move into a new phase of growth and development as an independent charity.
We were established 35 years ago to support those who have suffered a brain injury and theircarers. This includes head injury from accidents, trauma, tumours, or stroke. There are in the region of 3500 to 4000 incidences of acquired brain injury that require hospitalisation every year in Oxfordshire alone. In addition, there are many more cases that are categorised as “minor head injuries”, (such as concussion), whereby individuals will experience significant effects but not be formally admitted for treatment. Lives can be devastatingly affected by acquired brain injury and the types of support services that OHIS provides, are essential to maximise recovery and independence.
Who we are – The Support We Offer
Our first point of contact is through our innovative Oxfordshire ABI Support Service. Our ABI Navigators work within the hospital setting to identify individuals that require our support at the earliest stage of their condition, helping individuals and carers to navigate the complex journey of recovery and making referrals to our own or other community-based services as required. Based in Kennington Oxfordshire we have an activity and rehabilitation centre (including a well-equipped gym), that further supports individuals on their road to recovery.
Those spending a day at the centre may choose from a number of fun, practical and stimulating activities such as yoga, tai chi, quizzes, art, crafts, music, singing, creative writing and storytelling as well as special interest talks. With all of these opportunities we seek to promote social interaction, peer support and improved resilience. Further, our Brain Injury Buddies offer 1-1 support in the home and/or community, helping individuals to tackle everyday life challenges associated with brain injury and promoting their independence.
The role
Our Board of Trustees has people with backgrounds in health, business, legal, finance, IT and HR.
Some of our Trustees have worked in other successful charities as Trustees and Directors. It is a committed and friendly board, and the Trustees work well together.
We are now looking for people to join the Board who have complementary skills and who have a little time, new ideas and huge enthusiasm to help develop and grow the charity. In addition to applicants with specific professional experience or who have worked in the NHS or in the care sector, or in partnership projects – we are keen to hear from people who have themselves suffered or support a loved one with an acquired brain injury.
We need Trustees who have experience in one of the following:
Accounting, marketing & communications, fundraising & income generation, public health policy, or strategic planning.
We aim to offer equal opportunities for everyone: trustees, staff, volunteers, service users and carers. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, and we value differences.
If you are ready for this exciting challenge and can offer around 4 hours of your time each month to prepare for and attend Board meetings and from time-to-time support publicity and fundraising events, then we would be delighted to receive an application from you in the form of a 2 page CV and a brief covering letter setting out why this opportunity is of interest.
The Board meets monthly, mainly online and there are opportunities to meet face to face for annual business planning, social networking, events and to launch new services.
The closing date for receiving applications is 31st August 2023
If you would like to apply, please forward a covering letter and CV to: admin@oxfordheadinjuryservices.org.uk
Rebuilding After a Stroke
A stroke can drastically alter a person’s life, presenting a multitude of challenges during the recovery process. The aftermath of a stroke brings unique obstacles.
In this blog post, we delve into the common challenges individuals face after a stroke:
- Physical Limitations and Rehabilitation – Immediate physical limitations are often experienced following a stroke, such as weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, balance and coordination issues, and fine motor skill difficulties. Physical rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery, involving exercises, occupational therapy, and assistive devices to regain strength, mobility, and retrain affected muscles.
- Communication and Language Difficulties – Stroke can disrupt language and communication centres in the brain, resulting in aphasia—an impairment affecting speech, understanding, reading, and writing. Expressing thoughts and engaging in conversations become challenging. Speech therapy and alternative communication techniques like gestures, writing, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices aid individuals in reclaiming effective communication abilities.
- Cognitive Challenges and Memory Impairment – Cognitive challenges, including memory loss, attention deficits, concentration difficulties, and problem-solving issues, are common after a stroke. These impairments impact daily activities, work, and relationships. Cognitive rehabilitation programs encompass memory exercises, attention training, and cognitive strategies to help individuals regain and improve cognitive function, enhancing overall quality of life.
- Emotional and Psychological Impact – The emotional and psychological impact of a stroke should not be underestimated. Post-stroke depression, anxiety, frustration, and a sense of loss are common. Adjusting to changes and facing new limitations can be emotionally challenging. Seeking support from mental health professionals, engaging in counselling, and participating in support groups provide spaces for expression, encouragement, and coping strategies.
- Social and Lifestyle Adjustments – Reintegrating into social activities and daily life following a stroke may require adjustments. Physical and cognitive limitations can hinder participation in hobbies, work, and social events. Building a strong support network, exploring adaptive techniques and assistive technologies, and engaging in stroke-specific community programs aid in fostering a sense of belonging and reintegration.
Recovering from a stroke entails navigating a range of challenges that demand resilience and determination. Embracing physical rehabilitation, seeking professional support, and establishing a strong support network empower individuals to overcome these hurdles and achieve a fulfilling life after a stroke. Remember, with time, patience, and a positive mindset, remarkable progress can be made on the journey to stroke recovery.
If we can help, with our services or maybe signposting you to other support, then please get in touch.