Brain injury support group

CASEY residents who have an acquired brain injury (ABI) are encouraged to join a new social self-support group in Berwick.
The group was formed about a month ago at the Berwick Neighbourhood Centre and is a chance for those living with an ABI to meet others and take part in activities in a friendly environment.
An ABI is any damage to the brain that occurs after birth. It is caused by a range of incidents such as a stroke or car accident.
Berwick Neighbourhood Centre community development worker Paula Correia said the group was a good way for people to network and make new friends.
“It’s very important for people to have an opportunity to have social outlets,” she said.
This week is Acquired Brain Injury Week and the aim is to raise awareness in the community about people living with such injuries.
Ms Correia said networking was important because often people with an ABI stopped work or lost their connection to their workplace or other networks of friends after their injury.
“Of course, a lot of your networks are attached to your jobs.
“A group like this is very important. It is estimated upwards of 70,000 people in Victoria are living with ABI.”
The group has about seven or eight participants and more are welcome.
They meet each Thursday from 1pm to 3pm at the Berwick Neighbourhood Centre located at 112 High Street, Berwick.
Those interested in joining can call Paula on 9796 1970.