7^th November 2010

HEADWAY GIVE HOPE TO THE STROKE AND ABI COMMUNITY IN CORNWALL

People who have been left debilitated by a stroke or brain injury are set to benefit from a pilot programme to introduce a revolutionary new therapy designed to improve mobility.

Headway, supported by NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, will introduce the ARNI Trust's Action for Rehabilitation from Neurological Injury physiotherapy and rehabilitation programme into Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Headway Cornwall will work with the NHS to identify and train eight people who are already experienced exercise professionals.  They will be trained in the specialised ARNI programme that introduces new techniques for recovering physical mobility in patients.

This programme has been developed by Tom Balchin who at 21 suffered a debilitating stroke himself and therefore knows and understands the physical problems and difficulties people face to redevelop everyday coping strategies.

The self recovery programme teaches each individual how to rediscover lost strength, balance and movement by functional task-related practice with the ultimate objective of achieving as much self-reliance as possible.

The trained instructors will then run four 12 week ARNI programmes in major centres in the county from Penzance to Truro and Launceston teaching up to 100 people how to cope better with their changed circumstances.

Deborah Matthews, Commissioning Manger for the PCT said “This programme could over time help many ABI and stroke sufferers to lead a fuller more satisfying life by being able to do so much more for themselves. It is very positive news we are delighted to support this initiative for some of the most vulnerable people in our community”

John Crozier, Chair of Headway Cornwall’s trustees who developed this programme said “This is a very exciting development, a first for Cornwall and the whole of the South West. It will bring much needed remedial help to this community”

For further information, please contact:

Dr Tom Balchin

Founder & Director, ARNI Trust

Tel: 07712 211378

Matthew Cross

Trustee of Headway Cornwall

Tel: 01872 265110

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 
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About Headway Cornwall:

Headway Cornwall is a registered charity (no 1060882) set up to give help and support to people affected by brain injury.

• Our mission is “To work to improve the quality of Life of those with a traumatic brain injury, their relatives and carers”.
• We offer a range of services through centres in Lostwithiel and Truro
• These services are designed to improve self-respect, self-confidence, daily living skills and self-esteem.
• We promote, where possible, independent living.
• Our Programmes are geared to support each person's abilities and preferences