A woman who was brought in to save a Salford branch of a charity which helps people with brain injuries is celebrating after winning a national award.
Samantha Ashcroft was honoured for going above and beyond to support brain injury survivors and their families across Lancashire at an awards ceremony in London.
Her hard work was recognised by Headway, the brain injury association, as she won the charity’s Extra Mile Award at their glittering annual Awards ceremony, this year held at the five-star Royal Lancaster Hotel in the capital.
Samantha first joined the charity following the death of her close friend Andrew Kendrick, who passed away from complications related to a brain injury.
Determined to honour his memory, she became deeply involved in supporting others who faced similar challenges.
She accepted the award in honour of her late friend, whose memory continues to inspire her efforts to improve life after brain injury.
Speaking after her award win, Samantha said: “Winning this award means that the work I do is recognised and I’m making a difference to improve life after brain injury, whilst keeping the legacy of Andrew Kendrick, a close friend of mine, alive after he lost his life due to brain injury.
“At times I doubt myself thinking I don’t offer enough or make a difference, so winning this is the clarity I needed that I do and can make change.”
According to the charity, She is a font of knowledge when it comes to the benefits system, helping survivors and loved ones navigate application processes, and actively seeks out the latest training, guidance, and developments in brain injury care.
Samantha has been described as “the backbone,” carrying out a range of tasks to ensure she provides the best possible support to members and their families.
When Headway Salford, in 2010, Sam turned the charity around by recruiting a new Board of Trustees, organising regular day-centre activities for members, and raising the charity’s profile to encourage greater donations and sponsorships, with a new website, regular social media updates and annual fundraising events.
She did all this despite the journey from Sam’s hometown of Blackpool to Salford taking over one and a half hours each way.
Kat Whitemoss, Communications Manager for Headway Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde and Headway Salford, Trafford and North Manchester, nominated Sam for the accolade and said: “Sam’s contributions go far beyond her job description.
“She is involved in every aspect of the organisation, always ready to support anyone who walks through the door in need of kindness, guidance, or care.
“Thanks to Sam’s efforts, countless lives have been touched, and the quality of life for many of our members has been significantly improved.”
Luke Griggs, Chief Executive at Headway UK, said: “Samantha truly epitomises the name of this award – she really does go the extra mile for brain injury survivors in not one but two different communities.
“She’s always there for brain injury survivors, championing their needs and rights, so they get the support they truly deserve.”
