Support Groups

support

A listening ear
Share experiences/ideas
Support each other
Meet new people in similar circumstances

Bri Support groups are a place for people to give and receive both emotional and practical support as well as to exchange information.

Our groups offer a unique opportunity for people to talk openly about brain injury and its impact.

And don’t worry – confidentiality is a central aspect of our groups.

Ongoing attendance at the groups will give you a better understanding of the group itself and how it can help you.

The caring and supportive nature of the groups allows attendees to talk and support each other.

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Frequently asked questions

Who are your support groups for?

Our support groups are for people who have a brain/head injury. Our groups are also for carers, family members or friends of people with brain injury. Everyone is welcome to come along.

Do I need to register or contact anyone to attend a support group for the first time?
No, simply show up at the next group in your area and you will be welcomed by the group facilitator. You do not need to be a member of Brí to attend, anyone is welcome.

How many will be there?
It’s impossible to predict how many will attend any group. On average, attendance will usually be between five and fifteen, with a mixture of people with brain injury, carers, family members and friends.

Do I have to say anything when I get there?
You don’t have to speak if you don‘t want to, you can sit back and listen. However, you may be invited to share if you wish.

Can someone come with me for support?
Yes of course. Many people coming to a group bring their carer, a family member or a friend for moral support. Everyone is welcome to come along to our groups.

Do you have social outings within the groups?

All of our groups are different. Some groups prefer to sit and talk, while other groups like to organise social activities such as bowling, mass, group outings, depending on what the group would like to do.

Do you have guest speakers on different topics at your groups?
Most of our groups invite guest speakers to come along and speak on different topics. It depends on what the group would like information on. The group facilitator will organise a guest speaker on what the group would like.

So, what happens when you get there?

People are welcomed on arrival by the group facilitator
The groups are confidential so that what is discussed at a meeting is not to be spoken about outside the group.
Through the two hours, the group listens and supports each other, ideas on different issues are freely given. A certain topic may be discussed at the meeting or a guest speaker may speak during the meeting.
It is important to remember that you can be of great help to others within the group by sharing your experience and the coping skills you have developed.
There may be tea/coffee available at the group either during or after the meeting.