A team of volunteers from Higgs LLP gave their support to a growing sports tournament for people with acquired brain injuries (ABI).
Headway Worcestershire – a regional division of the leading brain injury association - held the second ABI Games at the University of Worcester Sports Arena on August 3 to promote inclusivity in sport.
The event gives people with acquired brain injuries the chance to compete in a wide variety of sports, including boccia, table cricket, walking cricket, bowls, walking football, walking rugby, tennis, chess, dominoes and UNO. There were also competitions for art and baking.
Higgs has long-standing expertise in brain injuries and is one of just a few law firms accredited by Headway in its directory of the UK’s best legal advisors.
Eight members of Higgs’ Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence team volunteered at the ABI Games, including the firm’s Head of Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Andy Shaw. The others were: Clare Langford, Natasha Alton, Sarah Arnold, Laura Hopkins, Zoe Beviss, Claire Burnell and Mark Parsons.
Claire is also a trustee of Headway Black Country, a charity dedicated to supporting brain injury survivors, their carers and families.
"We were delighted to support the second ABI Games.
“The event welcomed more than 100 participants from all over the UK, including Lisburn in Northern Ireland.
“Acquired brain injuries are not categorised in the Paralympics or the Invictus Games, so the ABI Games gives people the opportunity to show what they are capable of.
“The Higgs volunteers helped with the cricket and rugby games. It was a fantastic occasion for participants, their supporters and volunteers alike, with everyone celebrating the successes throughout the day.
“We have helped many people live fulfilling lives after an acquired brain injury and I’m really pleased this event is helping to shine a light on what can still be achieved after a brain injury."
Mark Parsons
Professional Support Lawyer, Higgs LLP
The medals were presented by the Headway Worcestershire Patron Ben Cooper, a presenter on long-running BBC TV show Bargain Hunt.
Organisers are hoping to continue to grow the event, with the next ABI Games planned for 2025.
The ABI Games was made possible thanks to a two-year £50,000 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund.
Higgs is committed to helping people with brain injuries with more than just compensation. The team helps people rebuild their lives with services including financial advice, investment guidance and obtaining Case Managers to establish personal care support schemes.