STAR Project - (Social Training and Reintegration) Support and social opportunities for survivors of brain injury

The STAR (Social Training and Reintegration) programme was set up in 2000 and now provides support for up to 40 people each week and operates through the operation of four groups covering the Eastern Health & Social Services area. The groups are user led and provide opportunities for people who have had brain injuries to meet others and to access peer support, as well as taking part in a wide range of activities aimed at encouraging the rebuilding of social networks and regaining of social skills.

Where?

Groups have been established throughout Belfast, Lisburn, Newtownards and Downpatrick, and are facilitated by a team of trained staff and volunteers.

When?

The Belfast groups are held at Headway Belfast on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am - 3pm for a full day of activities which includes art, drama and discussion groups.

The Downpatrick group is held from 2pm – 4pm on Monday afternoons.

The Lisburn group are is on Tuesday from 1pm – 43m.

The Newtownards group takes place on Friday mornings from 11am – 1pm.

There is a further group in North Belfast on Friday afternoons from 2pm – 4pm.

These groups decide what activities they would like to do each month and formulate their own individual Monthly Activity Plans.

Day Service

The Day Service is held at Headway Belfast and  provides support for up to 50 people each week.

The Day Service includes art therapy, drama therapy and music therapy allowing survivors to express themselves in a safe and welcoming environment.

Survivors who avail of the service also have the opportunity to redevelop skills that may have been lost as a result of their brain injury, including cookery and IT skills.

Day Service is held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.