Our team

Thomas started working in the day service at Headway in 2010 after doing a range of jobs through his 20s, from a stint at a local paper to sessional work for a food coop. After a couple of stretches working in cafes in his teens and early 20s, he swore he’d never work in a kitchen again. But the lure of the Headway kitchen soon proved too much for him: he took on the kitchen project in 2015, and hasn’t looked back since. Thomas lives with his young family on a boat moored alongside the Headway garden, and he loves being part of Headway’s extended family.

I started volunteering at Headway as a student in 2008 and immediately felt like I was part of the family. I then went off to work as a Therapy Assistant in a rehab centre, then in the community working with people with Neurological conditions, but couldn’t keep away and returned to work as a Co-ordinator at Headway. I’m always learning from members and that’s one of the things I love.

Nora qualified as a Physiotherapist at the University of Brighton in 2005 and specialised in neurology in 2008. She has worked in a variety of settings including the NHS, private and charitable organisations and has experience of working with individuals with a variety of neurological conditions. She also has particular skills in the management of complex spasticity and complex postural needs. She completed a Master’s Degree in Neurorehabilitation at Brunel University in 2012. Why she loves Headway? “Our members inspire me every day – to embrace any challenge that comes my way (with a smile!)”.

Michelle has been an artist since early childhood and began volunteering for Headway East London in 2001. Her love for people and passion for art led her to embrace the opportunity to join the staff team. Initially running art groups around a small table, it has grown into what is now called “Submit to Love Studios”. Daily up to 15 artists create works that have since been shown in galleries such as the Barbican, Wellcome, Autograph and Southbank. The studio is so much more than the artwork it produces, it’s a place where people discover meaning, purpose and joy through art. Why does she like working at Headway? I am inspired everyday by the courage and creativity of our members and artists.

Natalie has worked at Headway Devon for 10 years running day services across the county and providing advocacy for adults with acquired brain injuries. Why She loves Headway? “Brain injury continues to interest me after a decade of working in this area, I strive to assist individuals and their families to create a new sense of self following such an injury and advocate on their behalf .”

Bola joined Headway in September 2015, having worked for several charities within their HR Team over for a number of years. She is responsible for all HR processes and procedures throughout Headway including recruitment and selection, employee relations, payroll, developing HR policies and procedures and implementing employment legislations. “I like being part of this very unique and creative organisation, where everyone (members, volunteers and staff) are treated with respect and dignity. Everyone matters!”

Sarah has been involved in Headway East London since she was a teenager – as a volunteer, Coordinator, Senior Coordinator, Day Services Manager and now Director of Operations. She loves Headway and is proud to be a part of it.

Kath came to Headway East London in October 2019, to take up the newly created job of Fundraising & Business Development Manager. She has worked in fundraising and charities for a very long time, and is looking forward to contributing to Headway’s future successes. Why she loves Headway? I feel at home in the Headway community. Everyone strives to do their best, it is very inspiring to work and have fun alongside so many talented and lovely people.

Claire joined Headway East London in June 2022, after coming back from a career break to travel. As the Public Engagement & Communications Manager, she is responsible for anything that raises awareness about the work we do – whether through our social media and website, or our public events programme and partnerships. She loves to work at the intersection between art and social justice, and has previously worked at Clean Break, a theatre company for women with experience of the criminal justice system, and Poet in the City. “Being at Headway has taught me so much about disability and the struggles our members face every day to go about their daily lives. I am so grateful to be able to learn from them every day. There is a lot of creativity, joy, and incredible food here too!”