- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- Awareness
- Where:
- United Kingdom
- Date change rule:
- Every May 20
- Holiday emoji:
- 🎩
Hats for Headway rallies supporters every May 20 to don their most outlandish headwear, raising vital awareness and funds for brain injury survivors. This unique event, part of Action for Brain Injury Week, spotlights the profound impact of brain injuries on individuals and families. Join the movement by wearing a hat, sharing your story, and donating to support research.
Want to sponsor Hats for Headway? Learn how
History of Hats for Headway
Hats For Headway comes once a year after Action for Brain Injury Week. The idea behind the holiday is to show support to those living with disabilities after brain surgery, by wearing wacky hats.
Brain injury is caused by many things. It can be due to a congenital defect or be a result of an accident, stroke, or tumor. The effects of a traumatic brain injury depend on the type and severity of the injury. Dramatic advancements in neurosurgery were made in the 1970s, keeping those with brain injury alive who would have otherwise died. Unfortunately, although these advances were effective, the funding remained inadequate for expert rehabilitation, leading to patients getting discharged into the care of unprepared families.
In 1979, an advertisement was placed in a newspaper by Sir Neville Butterworth, seeking accommodation for his son who had a brain injury. Dinah and Barry Minton responded to his request, connecting Sir Neville with support networks. He was also contacted by social workers Reg Talbott in Nottingham and Philip Lockhart in Birmingham. The five called a meeting for everyone involved in taking care of brain-injured people. The session was attended by 23 professional carers on October 23, 1979, and Headway was born.
Hats for Headway timeline
The Headway day center opens in Gloucester, providing long-term rehabilitation to brain-injured people.
Headway shifts to its new location in Nottingham.
Princess Diana consents to become the Royal Patron for Headway.
Nat Parr becomes the Best Hat winner in 2021.
Hats for Headway FAQs
When is Hats for Headway?
In 2027, Hats for Headway will be observed on Thursday, May 20. It’s a key date during Action for Brain Injury Week, highlighting the ongoing need for research and assistance.
What is the purpose of Hats for Headway?
The core purpose of Hats for Headway remains to highlight the challenges faced by brain injury survivors and to generate financial support for vital services and research. Participants wear hats to symbolize the ‘hidden’ nature of many brain injuries and to spark conversations.
How many people are affected by brain injury?
Brain injury is a widespread public health concern. Approximately 1.3 million people attend A&E in the UK each year with a head injury, and around 350,000 are admitted to hospital. These figures underscore the vast number of individuals whose lives are impacted.
What is Action for Brain Injury Week?
This week-long initiative focuses on different themes each year to highlight various aspects of living with a brain injury, from rehabilitation to mental health. Hats for Headway serves as a memorable and engaging event within this broader campaign.
Hats for Headway Activities
Wear a crazy hat
Wear the craziest hat that you own with pride on this day. Share your selfie wearing the hat on your social media using #HatsForHeadway.
Donate to Headway
Donate generously to Headway to help them raise funds for research on brain injury and assisting those living with it. Also encourage others you know personally to monetarily contribute to the cause.
Spread awareness about brain injuries
This day offers a wonderful opportunity to share information about brain injuries. Post articles and resources online that could help loved ones of those suffering.
5 Interesting Facts About Brain Injury
It’s not as uncommon
Every year, at least 350,000 people are hospitalized due to brain injuries.
Minor head injuries can be dangerous
Even minor injuries to the head can adversely impact brain function, leading to dizziness, headaches, and concussions.
Injury severity is directly proportional to effects
The more severe the brain injury, the worse its long-term effects are going to be.
Brain injuries can alter one’s personality
Survivors of brain injury face problems that affect their overall well-being, relationships, and even their traits.
Things can be hard for survivors’ families
Even with support and help, the families of brain injury survivors face difficulties and uncertain challenges.
Why We Love Hats for Headway
A fun way to help a cause
Wearing funny hats to promote a cause is a neat way to raise funds, and we’re here for it! It also uplifts the mood surrounding a day that is dedicated to a very serious issue.
A helping hand for brain injury survivors
Headway has helped those living with the effects of brain injury rebuild their lives. Supporting them can change the lives of millions of people.
A mission to promote brain injury research
All proceeds to Headway go toward research on brain injury, help and support, and better facilities for brain-injured people and their families. The organization also offers a monthly e-bulletin comprising news, tips, and articles to keep you updated.
