A CHARITY is calling for more action to be taken to ensure people suffering from brain injuries receive the support they need.

The Totton-based charity Headway Southampton said more needs to be done to support everyone affected by brain injuries.

This comes after the mother of Hampshire man Matthew Cummings called for more awareness to be raised after his 36-year-old son took his own life.

As previously reported, Mr Cummings, from the Lymington area, was found hanging in his garden in August 2018.

During an inquest into his death, the court heard how he suffered from a brain injury following a road accident in 2004.

His mother Debbie Cummings said from that moment his life changed completely.

She had previously told the Daily Echo as he looked normal but his memory had been affected.

She said he was determined to change his life for the better and since 2017 he had been supported by Headway Southampton.

The charity supports people with acquired brain injuries.

After the inquest into Mr Cummings' death, charity manager Jo Hillier said: "Our hearts go out to Matt Cumming's family at this terrible time.

"The effects of brain injury can be devastating for both the individual and the family.

"Accepting that you no longer have the life and future that you once planned can be very difficult as well as coping with the physical, cognitive, behavioural and emotional effects of a brain injury.

"With the right help, at the right time, there can be life after brain injury.

"Sadly, too often there are barriers in place that make it hard for people to find or access support.

"More needs to be done to ensure everyone affected by brain injury has all the help and support they need."

The charity covers all areas of South West Hampshire and is open from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

A free drop-in support group for brain injury survivors and their families or carers is run on the last Friday of every month from 1.30pm to 3pm.

Ms Hillier said they are always looking for volunteers.

To contact the charity in Commercial Road call 023 8086 2948.