Alec Williams, a former engineer from Cardiff who suffered a brain injury as a result of an assault two decades ago, is now being considered for a national award that recognizes his dedication to supporting others. He is one of the finalists in the Volunteer of the Year category at Headway UK’s Annual Awards, a ceremony that annually honours the accomplishments and contributions of brain injury survivors, caregivers, volunteers, and other members of the Headway community throughout the country.
Alec was assaulted outside a Barry Island nightclub in June 2003 and was left on life-support.
The 61-year-old sustained a traumatic brain injury and struggled with his memory and performing basic tasks, like tying his shoelaces.
Following his injury, Alec joined Headway Cardiff and South East Wales and has been a Support Volunteer for 20 years at the charity’s small weekly group session, which supports people who have the most profound disabilities as a result of their brain injuries.
In his role, Alec supports clients to socialise, take part in activities and develop and maintain skills.
He has become firm friends with one client and works closely to support him to eat and drink and is said to always elicit laughter from as they banter together.
In a recent instance, Alec took prompt action to assist another client upon noticing their absence from the centre and becoming concerned for their well-being.
Alec agreed to check in on him on his way home with another service user, and after managing to gain access to the client’s flat, they found him collapsed on the bathroom floor.
Alec waited with him for the ambulance, and he and wife Laila regularly visited him in hospital, taking care of his washing and working with Headway Cardiff and South East Wales to ensure a smooth discharge back home with the support required.
Rebecca Pearce, Chief Executive Officer of Headway Cardiff and South East Wales, nominated Alec for the award sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP, citing his commendable dedication to supporting others.
She said: “We have borne witness to the obstacles and personal battles Alec has had to fight.
“Being shortlisted for this award recognises Alec’s personal progress that he has made, as well as the contribution he has made to our charity.
“We can always rely on him to be the first to approach new members to make sure they feel welcome and at home.
“Alec has become integral to the charity and Headway Cardiff and South East Wales would be the poorer without him.”
Alec said: “Before I came to Headway, I didn’t want to live to be honest. I’d gone from being an electrician, in charge of about 30 people, to suddenly not knowing my wife’s name.
“But then I found Headway, and went on to volunteer, which I’ve done for 20 years.
“Volunteering is so important to me. I get so much out of it. It’s helped me with my brain injury too.”
Winners for the Headway Annual Awards will be announced this evening, Friday, December 12 at The Royal Lancaster in London.
We wish Alec the best this evening. He is a worthy winner.
