A CHARITY which works to improve lives after a brain injury is in the running for a national award.

Headway East Lothian has been shortlisted in the community champions category at the Scottish Charity Awards.

Run each year by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), the awards celebrate Scotland’s voluntary sector, with finalists shortlisted in eight categories.

Members of the public have the chance to vote for Headway East Lothian, which is based in Dunbar’s Bleachingfield Centre, as their favourite overall entry in the People’s Choice Award.

Joyce Cattanach, development officer for the charity, said: “It is absolutely wonderful to be recognised for our work with our brain injury survivors and their family carers.

“Being in the final selection is amazing and a testimony to our Headway community; board members, volunteers, supporters and friends.

“We are so grateful to all of them and to SCVO for this chance to highlight the achievements of our ABI (acquired brain injury) community in facing challenges every day and to Colin Beattie MSP for his initial nomination.

“Thanks also to Iain Gray MSP for his continued support.”

Like many charities, Headway East Lothian has had to adapt during the coronavirus crisis.

Maria Burnett, east of Scotland co-ordinator, said: “Even though the group has not been meeting due to the pandemic, Headway East Lothian have been working tirelessly to offer much-needed vital support to their brain injured members, families and carers through various online resources as well as taking on new referrals.”

Votes can be cast at scvo.org.uk/scottish-charity-awards/finalists-2020 before 5pm tomorrow (Friday).