AN EAST Lothian charity which helps people cope with brain injuries celebrated its 10th anniversary this week with the launch of its first guide to local services.

Headway East Lothian marked a decade of supporting the local community with the first publication of its Edinburgh and East Lothian Directory of Brain Injury Services.

Sponsored by law firm Irwin Mitchell Scotland, the guide book lists the range of services available to people who have suffered a brain injury or stroke, their carers and families.

Joyce Cattenach, charity community development officer, said the guide offered vital help for people who needed assistance with day-to-day living.

She said: “There are many services available to people in East Lothian, but often they do not know they are there.

“This guide gives them a list of hospital and community-based services.” The guide, which features on its cover a painting of Bass Rock by a member of Headway East Lothian, will be available to medical professionals and patients across the county, as well as to download online.

Elaine Russell, a partner with Irwin Mitchell, said the firm became involved after dealing with clients who had suffered brain injuries.

She said: “A brain injury can unexpectedly alter a person’s life in an instant and the information they need is not always right at their fingertips.

“We are proud to be working with Headway to provide a means of quick and easy access to all the information needed in one booklet.” The booklet was launched at the East Lothian Community and Learning Development Centre in Musselburgh on Monday.