The Brain Injury Association (Auckland) Incorporated

Headway – Brain Injury Auckland has over 40 years’ experience providing brain injury education, support, and navigation services throughout Auckland.

Central to our education and support services is Peer Support. Headway provides brain injury peer support through the mediums of learn, grow, move, create, and connect.

Our approach:

Headway was established in 1981 by a group of parents whose children were receiving medical treatment for brain injury. Their children were getting the clinical support they needed however they felt isolated and confused as to how to move forward – especially once their children were discharged from hospital. They created a support group for each other, sharing lived experience lessons, and helping to smooth the path for those who came after them.

Peer support remains a central part of Headway’s service today. We have formally adopted a peer support model, grounded in the belief that those who share similar experiences or challenges can provide mutual support, empathy, and empowerment to each other.

Developing a professionalised peer support programme aligns with ACC’s action under Priority 3 of the Traumatic Brain Injury Strategy and Action Plan 2017 – 2021. Headway – Brain Injury Auckland has been focussed on delivering the service to Aucklanders however, with experience delivering a national contract as the provider of the Disability Information and Advisory Services, we are well-positioned to collaborate with regional offices to develop a National Peer Support programme.

Peer Support Delivery

Headway runs peer support groups through the following mediums: learn, move, grow, create, and connect. We recognise that everyone is different, and some need a vehicle, for example, art, to connect with others and share openly. These groups operate from community venues across Auckland, increasing accessibility, awareness of brain injury, and opportunities for mainstream participation in the community.

Client Feedback and Impact

“Headway’s been fantastic for me, all my friends and family they’re really good for me but they don’t know exactly what it feels like to have a brain injury. But everyone here, they’ve all had brain injuries so it’s really great to be with a group of people that had the same thing and feel the same way.”

Your Support:

As we strive to expand our reach throughout the Auckland region, we invite you to consider making a small donation to help us sustain and enhance our efforts. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference and is greatly appreciated. Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more connected community.