Dr. Danny Chambers MP joined our therapists, Chloe Hayward, Executive Director of UKABIF, and some of our patients at Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester on January 31st for an inspiring, interactive talk led by our Lead Speech and Language Therapist, Chrissy Bibby.
The talk focused on the vital role of neurological rehabilitation, and having a multidisciplinary team of specialist therapists working together, to enhance the lives of individuals living with neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries. Our therapists shared insights into their work, while our patients empowered everyone with their personal rehabilitation journeys, sparking thought-provoking discussions and questions.
We are committed to bringing our clinicians and our patients’ lived experiences, and to raise awareness of the impact of neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries, at a local and national level.
Danny Chambers MP comments, “It was inspiring to see first-hand the incredible work done by the multidisciplinary team of experts at Hobbs Rehabilitation and the MiNT Academy to help patients with brain injuries recover to the point that they can reclaim their independence. I was also extremely impressed at the contribution the team make to international scientific research – meaning the impact of their work reaches beyond the individual patients to benefit others too.”
Chloe Hayward, Executive Director of UKABIF, also led a powerful discussion on the profound impact that brain injury can have on not just the patient, but their family, friends, and carers. UKABIF is an organisation that promotes the importance of acquired brain injuries (ABI) to parliament and policy makers, and facilitates people with ABI’s to neurological rehabilitation specialists. The conversation really brought to light the need for greater awareness of the far-reaching consequences of acquired brain injuries in parliament.
“It was so good to speak with Danny and his team at Hobbs Rehabilitation recently, and especially to hear from previous patients, Jeremy and Ian, about their experiences of rehabilitation. It’s so important that those in a position to influence policy understand the importance of Neurorehabilitation. Independent Neurorehabilitation providers, like Hobbs, provide a large percentage of Neurorehabilitation in the UK. They work alongside their NHS colleagues and provide seamless and innovative programmes of care for people with acquired brain injuries and other neurological conditions. Seeing first hand the range of services, expertise and equipment at Hobbs was really exciting, as was hearing a lot about their plans for further expansion.” – Chloe Hayward, Executive Director of UKABIF, and Executive of INPA
The Importance of Neurological Rehabilitation For Patients
One of the key highlights of the day was when our patients shared their inspirational rehabilitation experiences with Dr. Danny Chambers and the group.
Jeremy, a patient at Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester, shared his remarkable stroke recovery journey. He described how, as a busy professional, he went from balancing a demanding career to facing the life-altering challenges of a stroke. Adjusting to his new lifestyle was tough, especially when communication became a major hurdle. But hearing Jeremy speak, with such expression and clarity, about his experience with Hobbs was truly empowering.
“It was important to me to speak to Danny Chambers because he personally understands the impact on a person that brain injuries can give, and how significant it is to be supported beyond the condition. This is what Hobbs Rehabilitation has given me; the support to help me manage my life after my stroke, and the ability to help other people in similar unique situations by giving these talks.” – Jeremy
Having the opportunity to speak directly with an MP made the experience even more meaningful for our patients. It allowed them to share their rehabilitation journeys at Hobbs Rehabilitation, making a difference in how neurological conditions are understood. Their stories not only showcased the physical progress they’ve made but also the emotional support they’ve received from our multidisciplinary team. By amplifying our patients’ voices, our team highlighted the crucial role of neurological rehabilitation and the need for its broader integration into the healthcare community.
Spreading Awareness of the Impact of Neurological Conditions
During his visit, Dr. Danny Chambers had the chance to hear directly from our dedicated team of therapists, as well as Helen Hobbs, Co-founder and Director, and Kirsti Pretty, Strategic Director of Hobbs Rehabilitation, each offering their unique perspectives on the diverse, multidisciplinary services we provide at Hobbs Rehabilitation.
- Physiotherapy
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Concussion Clinic
- Clinical Neuropsychology
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy
There were engaging discussions on how the psychological aspects of neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries are often overlooked, our multidisciplinary research and development opportunities at Hobbs Rehabilitation, and how our collaboration with neurotechnology companies (through The MiNT Academy) further enhance our rehabilitation programs.
The Future of Neurological Rehabilitation Awareness at Hobbs Rehabilitation
Raising awareness of neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries is vital for ensuring improved funding and access to specialised rehabilitation services like those provided at Hobbs Rehabilitation. With the right support, patients have the best possible chance to regain independence and rebuild their lives, making a lasting difference to their personal well-being and their communities.
It was a fantastic opportunity to have Dr. Danny Chambers MP visit Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester and engage directly in the discussions. His involvement allowed him to hear firsthand from our patients about their experiences and the importance of access to specialised rehabilitation. We’re excited about what this means for the future of neurological rehabilitation and are hopeful that increased awareness will lead to more support, resources, and opportunities for those living with neurological conditions and acquired brain injuries.
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