A new brain injury centre named after world-famous scientist Prof Stepehen Hawking is set to open in Ipswich.
The Headway Suffolk centre in the Ravenswood will offer rehabilitation and support for people with brain injuries and neurological conditions.
It has been backed by Dr Jane Hawking, the first wife of the renowned physicist, who is patron of the Suffolk charity.
“I am sure Stephen would be as delighted as I am that the new hub for Headway Suffolk is to be named the Stephen Hawking building,” she said. “I am confident that this carefully planned complex will bring much comfort and relief to victims of brain injury and neurological conditions, and to their families.”
Prof Hawking died in March this year aged 76 having lived with motor neurone disease for more than 50 years.
The Stephen Hawking Neuro Centre will replace Headway Suffolk’s current hub at Epsilon Place in Ransomes Euro Park, which will be sold by the charity to help support the new centre.
Helen Fairweather, the charity’s chief executive, said: “Life after brain injury is difficult for the person and their family.
“The change of personality and loss of function means many partnerships end.
“It is usually Headway clients who have to move out of the family home and become homeless, or end up in inappropriate provision such as mental health or older people’s services.
“This lead to depression and prevents rehab.
“Headway has for some time been looking at how to solve this problem, and now we have a very exciting solution.”
Ipswich MP Sandy Martin added: “Headway Suffolk have provided a fabulous service for people suffering from an acquired brain injury in their base on Ransomes Euro Park, but it is now time for a bigger, better hub with accommodation for those who most need it.
“I am really proud that we have this provision planned here in Ipswich.”
The charity is giving Ravenswood residents the chance to view the plans and to speak to clients at Headway Suffolk on Wednesday, October 3.
The event takes place at Ravenswood Community and Children’s Centre from 6.30pm.
For more information, visit www.headwaysuffolk.org.uk
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