ID cards launched for survivors of brain injuries with the support of Prince Harry

The launch of new identity cards for people with brain injuries comes as welcome relief for survivors in the North East.

His Royal Highness Prince Harry has launched the new initiative by Headway, a charity that supports people affected by brain injury.

The card is part of the charity’s Justice Project, which aims to raise awareness of brain injury within the criminal justice system, and ensure survivors are identified at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure they receive appropriate support.

The ID card has the additional benefit of breaking down social exclusion, with holders having renewed confidence in the knowledge they can easily explain their support needs should they require assistance in everyday situations.

Charles Southam, 28, from Bedlington, who receives support from local group Headway Tyneside, is grateful for the idea.

He said: “Brain injury is often a hidden disability and people struggle to understand that service users have anything wrong with them because they look so ‘normal’.