The effects of brain injury can be really wide-ranging, affecting anything from speech and balance to mood and behaviour and beyond – effects that often aren’t obvious straight away.
Carrying a Brain Injury Identity Card with you can help to quickly and easily communicate your needs, avoiding misunderstandings in daily and emergency situations.
Whether you need a bit of a quiet space in a busy shop, or a quick way to explain your situation in an emergency, this card can be an invaluable support and is really easy to apply for.
What does a Brain Injury ID card do?
- It’s recognised by police, NHS staff, and other UK service providers.
- It helps you get understanding and support when it matters most
- It means you don’t need to keep explaining your injury and its effects
- It’s a free way to support you and give you confidence when you might feel overwhelmed
What’s on a Brain Injury ID card?
- It clearly states that you have a brain injury
- A list of how your brain injury affects you
- A direct number for specialist criminal law solicitors trained in brain injury awareness
- Your name and photo
- The Headway logo and official recognition statement from the NPCC or Police Scotland. Applicants from Northern Ireland will have two Headway logos
- A 24-hour solicitor helpline number for criminal legal advice from solicitors trained in brain injury awareness
- Headway UK’s freephone helpline number for brain injury advice and emotional support
How do I apply?
Currently it takes up to 12 weeks for a card to arrive.
To apply, you’ll need:
- A passport-style photo of yourself
- In colour, and in focus
- Plain background
- No sunglasses (prescription glasses allowed)
- No head covering unless for medical or religious reasons
- Proof of brain injury
- Medical or hospital documentation confirming your diagnosis
- If you don’t have evidence, please contact the ID card team on:
- Phone: 0115 695 0372
- Email: idcard@headway.org.uk
- Please note this is the Headway UK team, not the Headway Shropshire team
Once you’ve got your photo and proof of injury, click the button below to go to the Headway UK website where you can submit your application.