Spinal injuries can have life-altering effects on individuals and their families, making it crucial to have access to comprehensive support systems during the recovery process. Support groups play a vital role in providing emotional, educational, and practical assistance to spinal cord injured people, helping them navigate their new needs.

JMW Solicitors recognises the significance of these support networks and is proud to partner with the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) to help raise awareness and offer essential resources to those affected by spinal injuries.

The Spinal Injuries Association 

Founded in 1974, the Spinal Injury Association (SIA) is the leading national charity for those with a spinal cord injury in the UK. Its mission is to provide support and assistance to individuals affected by spinal injuries, helping them lead fulfilling lives and achieve their full potential.

The SIA offers peer-to-peer support programs where those affected by spinal injury can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. This shared understanding and empathy can be invaluable in the healing process. The SIA also hosts a number of regional community support groups across the country, providing the opportunity for those affected by spinal injury to get together in an informal setting.

If you require help with a clinical aspect of living with a spinal injury, the SIA has a team of specialist nurses that can help. They can also produce an emergency care plan bespoke to you to help healthcare professionals in general hospitals understand your specific needs and how to manage them.

If you are struggling with the psychological impact of spinal injury, the SIA have a team of trained counsellors, all of whom have personal experience of spinal injury.  

To access SIA's services or become a member, visit their website (https://www.spinal.co.uk) and follow the instructions for registration.

National Support Groups 

Back Up Trust 

Services and programs

The Back Up Trust is a national charity that supports individuals with spinal injuries through mentoring, wheelchair skills training and activity courses. If you are considering a return to work, Back Up can help, and they also specialise in supporting children and young people. They also offer support to family members and caregivers.

How to join

Visit the Back Up Trust website (https://www.backuptrust.org.uk) to learn more about their services.

Cauda Equina Champions Charity

Services and programs

The Cauda Equina Champions Charity is a national charity providing support to people affected by cauda equina syndrome (CES). Service users can access peer support via the charity’s face to face support groups, CES Buddy system, telephone service and online support group. The charity also provides psychosexual counselling and clinical psychology support too.

To access CECC’s services, visit their website (https://www.championscharity.org.uk/).

Aspire

Services and programs

Aspire is a national charity that provides practical help to people who have been paralysed by spinal cord injury. They offer services such as accessible housing, financial assistance, and help with assistive technology.

How to join

To access Aspire's services, visit their website (https://www.aspire.org.uk).

Regional Support Groups 

Regional support groups play an essential role in providing localised assistance to spinal injury survivors. These groups often focus on the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals in their region, allowing for more tailored support and resources.

London: London Spinal Cord Injury Centre (LSCIC) provides support, information, and resources for individuals with spinal injuries in the London area.

Midlands: The Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries (MCSI) offers support groups, rehabilitation services, and advice for spinal injury survivors in the Midlands region.

North West: The North West Spinal Injuries Centre at Southport has an active support network of people, providing a range of advice and practical support. The Spinal Unit Action Group hosts social events, a coffee bar, as well as assisting with funding for travel expenses for relatives, driving lessons and purchase of specialist equipment. 

North East: The North East Spinal Cord Injury Support Network offers support and resources to individuals with spinal injuries and their families in the North East region.

South East: The South East Spinal Injury Association provides support, advice, and resources for people with spinal injuries in the South East.

South West: The South West Spinal Cord Injuries Support Group offers peer support, social events, and practical advice for individuals with spinal injuries in the South West.

To find a local support group, contact the national organisations mentioned earlier or search online for regional groups in your area. You can also ask your healthcare provider for recommendations or connect with other spinal injury survivors for suggestions.

Online Support Groups 

Online support communities serve as a virtual space for people affected by spinal injury to connect, share experiences, and access resources. These communities offer a convenient platform for individuals who may not have access to in-person support groups or prefer online interaction.

Facebook groups: Many spinal injury-related Facebook groups exist, providing a platform for members to share their experiences, ask questions, and support one another.

There are several pros and cons to online support groups that it is important to consider. Benefits of online support include accessibility, anonymity, and the ability to connect with a diverse range of people. However, limitations include the lack of in-person interaction, potential misinformation, and the need for internet access.

Talk to Us

If you have suffered a spinal injury in an accident that was not your fault, get in touch with our friendly and experienced solicitors today by calling 0345 872 6666. Alternatively, fill in our online contact form and we will get back to you.