Brain Injury Matters

We're delighted to share this brilliant infographic created by our work placement student, Molly!

As part of her A-Level studies, Molly spent a week with the Brain Injury Matters team and produced this fantastic resource highlighting 5 disability-friendly activities right here in Northern Ireland — from inclusive ice skating at Dundonald Ice Bowl to relaxed performances at The MAC.

Molly threw herself into her placement with enthusiasm, creativity, and real heart — and this infographic is a testament to her talent.

A huge thank you, Molly — you've created something that will genuinely help families and individuals across Northern Ireland find inclusive spaces where everyone can have fun and feel welcome. That's no small thing!

We wish you every success as you continue your studies and beyond. You have a bright future ahead of you, and we have no doubt you'll go on to do amazing things.

If you'd like to find out more about any of the activities featured, feel free to get in touch with us at [email protected] or call 02890705125
Because living well beyond brain injury is real, and when we are all included, we all thrive.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved longstanding volunteer, Brian White.

Brian gave his time, energy, and kindness with extraordinary generosity — leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met and a profound impact on all those we support at Brain Injury Matters.

He will be remembered always for his dedication, his warmth, and his quiet willingness to show up for others. After 20 years of selfless service, his presence will be deeply missed by our volunteers, staff, and participants alike.

We are, and will remain, truly grateful for everything Brian gave to this organisation and to the people at the heart of it.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go to his daughter and all of his wider family circle at this very difficult time.

Below is just one of our many volunteers' voices who contribute so much to our programme success at Pedal Power every Friday, and today was no exception.

Paul has been with us for over two years now and volunteers every week. He says...
"I've been a volunteer on this programme since November 2023. I decided to volunteer as I'm a keen cyclist and became aware of Pedal Power because my daughter Aoibheann was one of the early participants.
I'm privileged to be able to give some of my time to this fantastic project - the buzz and energy on a Friday morning come sunshine or rain, never diminishes! I am so inspired by the positivity and determination shown by the cyclists as they adjust to their new challenging lives after a brain injury. It is truly humbling to be able to share a small part of their journey and to see them regaining that sense of independence and normality whizzing off on a trike.
Getting to know them as individuals and seeing improvements over time is very rewarding as you know that you are making a difference!".

if you are interested in volunteering with Brain Injury Matters, do get in touch with us https://braininjurymatters.org.uk/volunteer

We are celebrating our incredible volunteers and thanking all those who contribute to Brain Injury Matters and make everything possible!

Whether you've guided a bike ride on Pedal Power, helped set the stage for one of our drama productions, supported our artists, cheered on our Enthusiasts Choir, or simply shown up week after week with a kind word and a willing pair of hands — this week is for YOU.

Our volunteers aren't just helpers. They are part of our family. They carry our ethos in everything they do: supporting independence, celebrating ability, and never giving up on anyone.

To every volunteer, past and present — thank you. This week, we see you. We celebrate you and we are so proud to call you ours.

*WALKING FOR HOPE* 👣 Supporting Amy and Lynsay

At Brain Injury Matters, we are incredibly proud to support Amy and Lynsay as they take on their inspiring Camino challenge in aid of our Pedal Power programme.

This journey is about so much more than miles walked — it’s about hope, resilience, and the real impact of recovery.

We have had the privilege of witnessing Simon’s incredible growth first-hand. Through our Pedal Power sessions, Simon has not only rebuilt independence and confidence, but has also become a source of encouragement to others — motivating his peers, lifting spirits, and showing what is possible after a brain injury.

Simon truly is an amazing ambassador for Living Beyond an Acquired Brain Injury. 💚

Amy and Lynsay’s journey reflects every step Simon has taken in his recovery, and every step forward for others in our community.

👏 Please join us in cheering them on and, if you can, supporting their fundraising efforts — helping more people rebuild, reconnect, and thrive.
https://www.justgiving.com/page/amy-mcwhirter-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

It was a pleasure having the Enthusiasts Choir perform as part of the 20th Anniversary of the Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit (RABIU) at Musgrave Park Hospital Belfast Health and Social Care Trust with families, patients and the Department of Health NI Health Minister Mike Nesbitt.

As we come to the end of ABI Week, we reflect on the reality many families live with every day after acquired brain injury — the quiet exhaustion, the loneliness, the plans cancelled, the friendships that fade, and the feeling of carrying so much that others cannot always see. 💚

For many parents and carers, life changes in an instant. What once felt simple can suddenly feel overwhelming. Yet despite the challenges, we Brain Injury Matters are uplifted watching families continue to show extraordinary strength, patience and resilience every single day.

What others may sometimes see as a burden, is in fact a true act of love.
A love shown through advocacy, sleepless nights, endless appointments, emotional strength and unwavering support.

To every individual, parent, sibling, carer and family navigating life after brain injury:
You are seen.
You are valued.
And you are not alone.

Hope grows when people choose compassion. When someone sends a message, offers practical help, keeps inviting you out, listens without judgement, or simply says, “I’m here.”

As ABI Week comes to a close, let this be more than reflection — let it be a call to action !!! 🧠

Reach out.
Learn.
Listen.
Support.
Stay connected.
Volunteer with us !

Because small acts of kindness can make an enormous difference to families carrying invisible challenges every day.

Together, we can create a future where no family affected by brain injury feels isolated or forgotten. 💙

ABI WEEK - Day 4 | Isolation and the Hidden Impact on Families

When an individual experiences an acquired brain injury (ABI), the effects extend far beyond the injury itself.

When we, at , asked parents caring for a child with an acquired brain injury (ABI) about isolation, every single parent told us the same thing: before their child’s injury they did not feel isolated. Afterwards, they described themselves as ranging from very isolated to extremely isolated.

The biggest contributors were:

• Emotional exhaustion
• Lack of support
• Financial pressures
• Feeling misunderstood
• Reduced social life

Isolation doesn’t happen because families stop wanting connection. It happens because barriers get in the way.

A parent who is emotionally exhausted may not have the energy to arrange a coffee date.

A family facing financial pressures may not be able to afford social activities, transport, or childcare.

Parents who feel misunderstood may stop sharing their experiences because explaining brain injury over and over becomes exhausting.

Many carers also find their social circles shrink as routines, priorities and responsibilities change.

So what can we do?

• Check in regularly, not just once.
• Offer specific help such as collecting groceries, providing transport or helping with siblings.
• Learn about ABI so families don’t have to constantly explain.
• Keep inviting families to events, even if they often can’t attend.
• Make social activities accessible, affordable and flexible.
• Listen without judgement and acknowledge the challenges they face.

Reducing isolation isn't always about doing something extraordinary. It's about making the effort to stay connected, show understanding and let families know they are valued, supported and not alone.