Referring to the Child Brain Injury Trust
If you’re looking to refer a child or young person affected by an acquired brain injury, you’re in the right place. Our referral process is designed to be clear, supportive, and responsive, making it easy to connect families with the help they need as early as possible.
Once a referral is received, our team carefully reviews the information and matches the family with the most appropriate support. This may include a local ABI Coordinator or our virtual support team, ensuring families receive tailored guidance, practical help, and emotional support throughout their journey.
Self-Referrals for Families
Families know their child best, and you do not need a professional referral to access our support. Parents, carers, and young people can refer themselves directly to the Child Brain Injury Trust.
Our referral process is flexible and accessible, because our priority is supporting children, young people, and families affected by acquired brain injury. Once a referral is received, we’ll gather some essential information to make sure we understand the child’s situation clearly and that support is provided safely and fairly. This may take place through an initial phone call, virtual meeting, or home visit.
There is no time limit on when you can refer. While earlier support can help put the right systems in place sooner, families are welcome to contact us at any point up to a child’s 18th birthday. We also continue to support young people through the transition into adulthood, offering guidance and continue to support young people until fully transitioned to adult services.
Professional Referrals
We welcome referrals from professionals working with children and young people affected by acquired brain injury, including those in healthcare, education, legal, and social care settings.
Professionals can make a referral with the consent of the parent, guardian, or carer who has legal responsibility for the child or young person. Our referral process is designed to be straightforward and responsive, ensuring families are connected to the right support as early as possible.
Following referral, our team will review the information provided and identify the most appropriate support, which may include a local ABI Coordinator or our virtual support team. We work collaboratively with professionals and families to ensure a joined-up, child-centred approach.
How to refer
Complete our online professional referral form, or alternatively, download a referral form and return it by email to info@cbituk.org or post it to us.
- Get in touch with one of our ABI Coordinators
Other Sources of Support
We know it can be deeply disappointing to discover that you or your child may not be eligible for our support. Our referral criteria mean we can only accept referrals for children and young people with an acquired brain injury up to the age of 18. This is not a reflection of need or impact, and it does not mean support is unavailable.
If your child is over 18, or if their circumstances fall outside our referral criteria, there are other trusted organisations who can offer guidance, information, and support. While their services may differ from ours, they are experienced in supporting individuals and families affected by brain injury and related challenges.
You may find it helpful to contact one of the organisations below:
Headway – Provides information, support, and services for adults affected by brain injury, including local groups across the UK.
The Children’s Trust – Offers specialist support, rehabilitation, and resources for children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability.
The Disabilities Trust – Supports individuals with brain injury, mental health needs, and other disabilities through a range of services.
The Brain Injury Group – Provides information and signposting for individuals and families affected by brain injury.
YoungMinds – Supports children, young people, and families with mental health guidance, which can be particularly helpful alongside the challenges of brain injury.
If you are unsure where to turn, we encourage you to reach out to one of these organisations. You deserve understanding, clarity, and support, wherever you are on your journey.
Get in touch
If you have questions or need help with our referral process, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.