We are moving! Watch the video to get a sneak peek of the new building, and read on to find out more about our vision for the space, who our new neighbours will be, a short history of the site, and how you (yes please, you!) can get involved!
Mari Holcombe, Chief Executive Officer
“We are excited to officially announce that on 4th April 2026 we became the lease owners of the Woodside Building on the Britannia Road Estate in Kingswood!“
“This important step allows us to continue working towards our long-term vision while creating a space that truly reflects the needs of the brain injury community. We look forward to hearing from our community about how this space can further support those affected by brain injury.
Our vision is to create a sanctuary for everyone at different stages of the journey, from families with loved ones in acute hospital settings at the very beginning of brain injury, to caregivers and individuals living with brain injury themselves. We want this new building to be a welcoming space where people can come away from the hospital environment or the isolation of their home and seek support from our team, connect with others who share similar experiences, and know that the door is always open to them.
There are plenty of ways for you to be involved!“
A space designed for connection and growth
One of the most significant advantages of the new site is the opportunity for everyone to be together. Having all services under one roof will make it easier for members to move between activities, meet friends and feel part of a shared community. It also allows staff to collaborate more closely and offer a smoother, more joined‑up experience for service users and families.
The site itself offers a range of features that will support wellbeing, creativity and independence. The generous outdoor space is a major highlight, providing room for gardening, relaxation, outdoor activities and future projects shaped by service‑user ideas. The on‑site kitchen will give members the chance to cook, learn new skills and enjoy shared meals – an important part of building confidence and independence after brain injury. There is also plenty of on-site disabled parking.
Inside, there are multiple rooms that can be adapted for a wide range of activities. Plans are already being explored for music therapy, sensory sessions, arts and crafts, quiet spaces and group workshops. These ideas are just the beginning, and the charity is committed to ensuring that service users have a strong voice in deciding how the space evolves. The move is very much a work in progress, and Headway Bristol wants the community to help shape every step.
A thriving community around the corner
The Kingswood Estate is also home to a number of other charities, organisations, cafes and community facilities, including Southern Brooks Community Partnership, Helping Homeless Believe, Kingswood Community Transport and Circomedia.
Being part of this vibrant hub will open the door to new partnerships, shared events and opportunities for service users to connect with the wider community. The surrounding area offers cafés, green spaces and local services that will make day‑to‑day visits easier and more enjoyable.
A short history of the site
The Kingswood Estate on Britannia Road began as a reformatory school established in 1852 by social reformer Mary Carpenter to provide education and industrial training for delinquent boys. The site was later rebuilt in a U-shape between 1891 and 1892 and functioned as an “approved school” (later known as the Kingswood Training School) until its closure in the 1980s.
In 1991, the site was handed over to the Kingswood Foundation, which sold a portion of the land to fund the refurbishment of the historic buildings. Since then, the estate has been transformed into a community hub managed by Creative Youth Network, housing various arts and social organisations that continue its original mission of supporting young people and the local community.
Continuity during the transition
Headway Bristol wants to reassure all service users, families and carers that support will continue without interruption throughout the move. The same staff team, the same programmes and the same person‑centred approach will carry straight across to the new site. While the building will continue to develop over time, the care, familiarity and routines that people rely on will remain firmly in place. The move is designed to enhance the experience – not change what people value most – and the team will work closely with every individual to make sure the transition feels smooth, safe and positive.
Headway Bristol’s move to Britannia Road represents not just a change of location, but a chance to build something new – together. As the charity settles in, the voices and ideas of its members will guide how the space grows, ensuring it becomes a place where people feel supported, empowered and truly at home.
What are the next steps?
In terms of timelines, we are hoping to be in the new building within the next three months. The toilet facilities are currently being refurbished, along with some of the other key areas. When we do move in, we will initially only be using part of the building while we work together strategically on how the remaining areas of the building could best be used.
How you can be involved
Donate or raise funds
We know that money can be tight during these times, but if you wish to donate or raise funds, then we’d love to hear from you now more than ever. (Moving is a very expensive business!)
We’re dreaming of installing a sheltered space within our wonderful new grounds to support well-being activates and allow our service users to enjoy being outside in the fresh air as much as possible. If you wish to sponsor this transformative vision specifically, please get in touch.
Practical support
We are keen to hear from any painters, decorators, handypersons, budding space designers/architects, gardeners, or seamstresses who may be able to support us in any way.
Anyone with a skill, hobby, or even just a few hours to spare that could benefit our new space, please do get in touch!