Glen Thompson working on a toy shield.

Pioneering courses specially designed to support and rebuild the confidence of people left damaged or impaired by head injuries have been started by the Norfolk-based charity Headway.

The move by the charity, which is based in Gorleston, was sparked by the success and popularity of a series of taster courses.

Headway client Steven Askey, from Caister, was delighted with his course achievements. "The courses are really good. It’s nice doing something positive which has also given me a recognised certificate to show for my achievement and hard work." he said.

After attending a computer course Derrick Williams, from Gorleston, typed a letter to Headway’s headquarters saying: "The course gave me a major insight to this new technology. It gave me a view of what has happened to anybody who has suffered a head injury."

Between six and 12 people, mostly aged from 21 to 65, take part in the courses and share mutual problems. The experience of being together has contributed to the success of the courses.

Courses on offer include computing, arts and crafts, literacy, music and "a new sense of self" - a tailor-made subject designed to assist brain-injured people to plan a new way forward in life.

David Lemon using his wordworking skills

The courses, at Headway House, are available four days a week and are free of charge. They are proving so popular that the charity is expanding its base. They now have a new office in Rosebury Road, Norwich, which is open on Mondays.

Headway is an independent charity supporting the interests of brain injury survivors, families and carers. There are over 100 independent charities across Britain that support brain injury survivors, and most are linked to the Brain Association.

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