For nearly five decades, Headway Bristol has provided a vital lifeline to brain injury survivors, their families and carers across Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. What began as a small, passionate support group has grown into a leading independent regional charity. As we approach our 50th anniversary, we look back on the milestones, the challenges and the incredible community that brought us to where we are today.
1977: The spark at Frenchay Hospital
Our story began in 1977 at Frenchay Hospital. Founded by Rita Rees, a determined Bristolian, the group originally brought together families whose relatives had suffered traumatic brain injuries.
At the time, medical developments were saving more lives, but long-term community care to help families navigate life after hospitalisation was virtually non-existent. Rita’s grassroots initiative filled this critical gap, initially focusing on helping relatives survive the traumatic period of intensive care.
1980s–90s: Growth and independence
As the group’s impact became undeniable, its mission evolved to help survivors adapt to life back at home. The momentum built right here in Bristol actually preceded the creation of the national charity, Headway UK, which was registered in 1980.
By January 1992, we reached a major milestone, achieving formal status as an independent charitable company: Headway Bristol Brain Injury Association Limited. This independence allowed us to tailor our funding and specialist care specifically to the unique needs of our local community.
The Frenchay era and evolving needs
For years, our identity remained deeply tied to Frenchay. We eventually transitioned from the main hospital site into the Frenchay Beckspool Building, where our day centre was anchored for nine years. From this hub, our team delivered a comprehensive matrix of care, including social and cognitive rehabilitation, information services and critical one-to-one community outreach.
As understanding of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) grew, so did our numbers. We grew from an entirely volunteer-led initiative to employing a dedicated team of staff while retaining many incredible volunteers.
2026: A new chapter in Kingswood
The post-pandemic economic climate brought sharp financial challenges, forcing us to rethink how we deliver care. In a bold strategic move to remain financially sustainable, we temporarily decentralized our services across several community spaces. We are incredibly grateful to our transition partners at the Wellspring Settlement in Barton Hill, and The Brightwell in Bradley Stoke.
This resilience paved the way for another milestone: in April 2026, under the leadership of CEO Mari Holcombe, we officially secured the lease for the historic Woodside Building on the Kingswood Foundation Trust estate.
Moving into our permanent home at the Woodside Building has dramatically transformed our reablement and well-being services:
- More space: The expanded footprint allows us to safely scale up our rehabilitation programmes.
- Independence skills: A comfortable, structured environment helps survivors safely relearn independent living skills.
- Creative therapies: We’re currently developing dedicated zones for creative arts, physical exercises and cognitive therapy.
Looking forward to the next 50 years
Nearly half a century after Rita Rees gathered a few anxious families in a hospital room, our core mission remains unchanged: ensuring no one has to face the life-changing realities of a brain injury alone.
As we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary, we invite our community of survivors, families, volunteers and donors to look back with pride – and step forward into the future with us.
Celebrate 50 years with us: Get involved
We need your voice, your memories and your support to make our golden anniversary year our most impactful yet.
Share your story
Were you or a loved one supported by Headway Bristol in the 70s, 80s, 90s or beyond? We are collecting photos, memories and stories to feature in our upcoming anniversary archive.
Support our future
Help us ensure that Headway Bristol is still here providing life-changing care for the next 50 years. Every donation helps us fund vital rehabilitation resources at the Woodside Building.