Headway Sussex smashes fundraising target, raising £17,331 to keep vital brain injury support groups accessible

Headway Sussex is celebrating after its 2026 Keep Our Doors Open campaign raised an incredible £17,331.75, surpassing its original £15,000 target thanks to the generosity of funders, fundraisers, donors and the wider Sussex community.

The campaign was launched to cover the annual cost of running the charity’s support groups, which provide a vital lifeline for people affected by acquired brain injury (ABI), including traumatic brain injury, stroke and other neurological conditions.

The charity’s original target of £15,000 has been exceeded by £2,331.75, with the additional funds going towards the cost of running the groups in 2027.

Headway Sussex is committed to keeping its support groups accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. Attendance is donation-only, with no fixed fee, ensuring people can access connection and understanding without worrying about the cost.

More than a fundraising target

An acquired brain injury can change every aspect of a person’s life. Memory problems, fatigue, communication difficulties and changes in personality can make everyday activities challenging. Relationships can become strained, friendships may fade, and people can find themselves feeling isolated and misunderstood.

For many, meeting others who understand these experiences can make a significant difference.

Headway Sussex’s support groups provide a welcoming space where people can share experiences, build friendships, regain confidence and connect with others who understand the challenges of life after brain injury. They also offer families and carers an opportunity to meet people facing similar circumstances.

Without these groups, some people could be left struggling with isolation and uncertainty, without a local place to turn for peer support and understanding.

Roxanne Thomas, Digital Marketing, Fundraising & Grants Lead at Headway Sussex, said:

“This is fantastic news, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped us achieve it. We didn't just reach our target – we surpassed it, and that is something our whole community should be proud of.

“Behind every pound raised is the opportunity for someone affected by brain injury to find friendship, understanding and a place where they belong.

“Brain injury can be an incredibly isolating experience, particularly when the people around you don't fully understand how your life has changed. Our support groups help people realise they are not alone. They can talk openly, share their experiences, rebuild their confidence and form friendships with people who truly understand.

“We believe nobody should miss out on that connection because they cannot afford to pay to attend. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we have covered the full cost of our 2026 support groups and have already made a start on funding them for 2027.

“Thank you to every funder, fundraiser, donor, business and community organisation that has helped keep our doors open. Your generosity is making a real difference to people affected by brain injury across Sussex.”

Looking ahead to 2027

Although the campaign has exceeded its target, the work does not stop here. The £15,000 needed to run the support groups is an annual cost, meaning further fundraising will be needed to secure their future beyond 2026.

The additional £2,331.75 provides a valuable starting point towards next year's costs, but continued support from funders, businesses and the community will be essential to ensure the groups remain accessible.

Headway Sussex would like to thank everyone who donated, organised fundraising activities, took part in events, shared the campaign or helped raise awareness. Every contribution has helped protect a service that brings people together at a time when they may need it most.

To find out more about Headway Sussex and its support groups, visit https://headwaysussex.org.uk/support-groups/