Angela Caulfield, 54, won the Volunteer of the Year Award - sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors – for her tireless efforts to improve local support for brain injury survivors.
The national awards programme, run by UK-wide charity Headway – the brain injury association, celebrates the outstanding achievements and contributions of people with brain injuries and those working to support them.
Angela was presented with her award by double Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell, who is Vice President of the charity.
After a road traffic accident in 2004 left her son John with a traumatic brain injury, Angela decided to set up a steering group in Durham to provide support for brain injury survivors and their loved ones.
Two years on from the initial meeting, Headway Durham and Chester Le Street – later relaunched as Headway County Durham – was formed.
Angela said: “John had incredible care and support while he was in hospital in Newcastle, but when we came home to Durham there was hardly any understanding of brain injury or access to ongoing rehab. That’s why I set up Headway County Durham.”
From small beginnings, the charity now delivers a wide range of services across multiple sites, ensuring those affected by brain injury have the opportunity to access proper support.
Angela’s dedication to the charity over the years has been unwavering. She is now the Chair of the group and her son John has been able to make use of the services and support on offer.
Peter McCabe, Headway’s Chief Executive, said: “Angela’s dedication to Headway County Durham and her support of the service users is truly invaluable.
“To care for her son and his complex needs following a brain injury and still find the time to support others in the community is nothing short of exceptional.
“Angela’s generous spirit and selfless drive to improve life after brain injury for people in County Durham makes her a deserving winner of this award.”Back
