Brain Injury Navigator

Headway Sussex is launching an exciting new volunteer role: Brain Injury Navigator.

As a Navigator, you’ll provide telephone support to people living with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Many people will be newly injured, recently discharged from hospital, or waiting for community rehabilitation. Other people will have unexpectedly fallen into a carer’s role. This is often a lonely and uncertain time and that’s where you come in. With patience, empathy, and a calm listening ear, you’ll help people feel heard, reassured, and less isolated. You’ll provide guidance, encouragement, and connection at a time when it matters most.

This is your chance to: - Make a direct difference to people’s lives - Gain valuable experience in a unique new service - Be part of a supportive and passionate team

Join us and help shape this innovative project from the very beginning.

What skills do I need?

We need people who will listen with patience and empathy, who can be calm and respectful when people are distressed. Understandably, you’ll respond to each person's needs on an individual basis, maintain confidentiality, and respect the dignity of the people you support.

As many people using the service will have cognitive impairment, you’ll need to provide information that is accurate and appropriately pitched.

Follow-up information could be in written and/or video form, alongside further signposting and referrals.

You won’t be alone or unsupported, as we want to build a networked, supportive team of Navigators so that you can feel empowered and confident in your role - so you can enjoy your sessions with us.

We welcome people who can bring kindness, compassion, and a solution-focused curiosity to health-related challenges. Clear and calm communication, patience, and adaptability are all important qualities for this role, as will be emotional resilience.

We need people to have basic digital skills to log calls and join online sessions and can provide further training where necessary. It’s also helpful, though not essential, if you have experience of disability or mental health support, cultural sensitivity, or a willingness to learn and accept feedback.

In return, you’ll receive a full induction and role-specific training, regular supervision and debriefs, and guidance on stress management and self-care. Most importantly, you’ll gain the opportunity to say you’ve made a real difference to people’s lives, with the potential to grow and reach even more people in the future.

Location

This opportunity can be carried out whilst working from home.