Our history

In 1981 Dr Dorothy Gronwall, a leading neuropsychologist at Auckland Hospital, connected relatives of patients to form the original support group for families affected by brain injury. 

The Head Injury Society of Auckland was formed by the end of 1981 and after a number of name changes is now known as Headway Brain Injury Auckland.

Our vision iconHeadway Strategy 

Our Vision

Everyone impacted by brain injury thrives in an inclusive and understanding community.

Our Mission

We honour the agency of people impacted by brain injury and support them to live their best possible lives.

Our Values

  • Collaborative
  • Courageous
  • Inclusive

Overarching Focus

  • Te Tiriti o Waitangi – we give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in all the work we do
  • Cultural Diversity –Recognising and valuing cultural diversity, whilst being mindful of personal biases. Ability to work together with all communities towards a shared purpose
  • Equity - Striving to achieve equitable outcomes for all

Enabling a thriving community

Enabling our brain injury community to thrive by providing appropriate navigation and support.

We will:

  • Ensure everyone is aware of and able to access our services
  • Ensure everyone is enabled to develop the tools and skills to have agency over their lives
  • Recognise and respect the diverse backgrounds of individuals in the community
  • Adopt a holistic approach to hauora/wellbeing
  • Work towards equity of outcomes.

Educating for improved outcomes

Educating those affected by brain injury and the wider community to achieve better outcomes.

We will:

  • Provide access to credible, up-to-date information about brain injury
  • Deliver information that is accessible, understood and meets the needs of the audience it was designed for.
  • Be involved with research relevant to brain injury.

Collaborating for change

Collaborating with like-minded organisations to re-think brain injury.

We will:

  • Work with researchers, medical professionals and like-minded organisations to better understand brain injury
  • Work collaboratively to address issues related to brain health and brain injury
  • Advocate as a group for increased support for those affected by brain injury

Resourcing for our future

Providing Headway with sufficient resources to deliver services and care for our staff and volunteers.

We will:

  • Provide excellent staff and volunteer support, development and resourcing.
  • Develop digital competencies and infrastructure
  • Invest in technology that helps fulfil our mission
  • Ensure funding is sufficient, reliable and diversified.