For those suffering with a serious spinal injury, it can be hard to know where to turn for support in coping with such a devastating and life-changing event. Around 1,200 people are paralysed with a spinal injury every year; many of these people will become full-time wheelchair users. As well as the obvious physical obstacles that such an injury brings, many also suffer from traumatic stress symptoms and can struggle with the emotional challenges of adapting to living with a disability. However, there are many groups and services available for people who are coping and coming to terms with long term spinal injuries which can provide vital practical and emotional support during the arduous process of recovery and rehabilitation.

ASPIRE offers practical support including accessible housing, assistive technology and grants for specialist equipment, to those living with spinal cord injuries in the UK. They have years of experience and knowledge of the needs of those with spinal cord injuries, and are able to offer a variety of services designed to help you regain independence and live a fulfilled life. The Disabled Living Foundation can also supply impartial advice, information and training on daily living aids to assist with independence and quality of life; and has a helpline to answer any questions you may have. Motability also assists disabled people in exchanging their government-funded mobility allowances for cars, scooters or powered wheelchairs so they can regain mobility and independence.

There are also many groups offering emotional support and guidance to those who have been through a major accident or critical illness. The BRAKE helpline offers support to anyone who has been seriously injured in a crash and their carers. The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) can also offer specialised support for those suffering with a spine injury, at both the time of the injury and for the rest of the person’s life. The SIA helpline is staffed by people who have themselves experienced spinal injury, who can share their life experiences of their injuries to support others.

The Brain and Spine Foundation runs a helpline staffed by neuroscience nurses, who can answer questions about all neurological conditions including those related to spine injuries, and can offer information and support on any issues of concern. They also produce informative booklets and fact sheets on different conditions, symptoms and procedures, which are available free.

For those who have suffered an injury or accident, a lawyer who understands what it means to have experienced a serious and life-changing injury can be an invaluable source of support. The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers is a great resource for those seeking compensation as a result of suffering a spinal injury. Brainandspinalinjuries.co.uk also offers one of the largest and most experienced teams of specialist serious injury lawyers in the country, and is experienced in assessing compensation claims and securing early interim payments for clients, enabling them to access the support and equipment they need as soon as possible.

BRAKE Helpline:                                               0845 603 8570

SIA Helpline:                                                     0800 980 0501

BSF Helpline:                                                    0808 808 1000