People with professional or personal experience of brain injury are urged to support the creation of the ABI Strategy, with as broad a range of voices as possible sought to ensure it is truly representative.
The Call for Evidence around the creation of the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Strategy has been open for a number of weeks, with many people already having made their voices heard.
However, more are encouraged to take part in the consultation, with views particularly sought from people aged under 25, people from a BAME background and those with experience of the criminal justice system.
The development of the ABI Strategy is led by a programme panel chaired by Minister of State for Care and Mental Health, Gillian Keegan, and Chris Bryant MP, chair of the APPG on ABI.
Through the Call for Evidence, the panel can then focus and prioritise efforts to lead to the development and implementation of the long-awaited ABI Strategy.
The Strategy’s creation was approved by the Government in December 2021, following widespread calls from brain injury charities and organisation and the introduction of a Private Member’s Bill by Chris Bryant calling for action.
Through the process, the panel can assess the evidence gathered to find out what services are needed, where gaps exist, and how the Government can assist in filling these.
“We need people to come forward with ideas and suggestions based on their experience of brain injury as practitioners, patients or family members so we can get this strategy right,” says Chris Bryant.
“I urge everyone to take part if they think they have an insight to offer.”
“It is absolutely essential people living with acquired brain injury get the best possible care and treatment and that we take steps to prevent these injuries wherever possible,” said Gillian Keegan.
“Together the cross-government programme board and the Call for Evidence will allow us to deliver a strategy to address issues that matter most to those with acquired brain injuries and other neurological conditions.”
The UK Acquired Brain Injury Forum (UKABIF) has played a leading role in pushing for the creation of a strategy to deliver better support to people living with brain injury.
Chloe Hayward, executive director of UKABIF, said: “The Call for Evidence will help the panel to focus and prioritise their efforts, so we need people with lived experience of brain injury – whether survivors, carers or professionals – to participate.
“This will ensure the panel has the best available information to develop their strategy.”
To have your say in the Call for Evidence, go to https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/acquired-brain-injury-call-for-evidence and complete the survey.
If you require further information, contact ABIcallforevidence@dhsc.gov.uk
