A Harold Wood man who still suffers from the impacts of a brain injury after being assaulted more than 20 years ago has won a national award for his charitable work. 

Dean Harding, 45, was only 21 when the incident at a nightclub left him fighting for his life. With internal bleeding and a blood clot on his brain, his family were told to expect the worst. 

However, after 15 months relying on a wheelchair and his parents' support, Dean managed to pull through. Despite still suffering some of the aftereffects of his brain injury, such as fatigue and memory loss, he has committed himself to helping the brain charity Headway East London. 

One of Dean’s most notable initiatives was setting up the charity’s Better Together project, which provided free face-to-face advice to brain injury survivors and their loved ones. 

The charity estimates this saved the NHS more than £500,000, as it prevented more costly treatments down the line. 

In recognition of his work, Dean has now been awarded the Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award, presented on December 9 at a ceremony at the Landmark Hotel in London. 

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On his win, Dean said: “This means so much to me. There’s just no other charity like Headway, and we’re all like family. I wouldn’t be able to live without Headway, so to be able to give something back and be recognised for it is marvellous 

“Knowing that sharing my story and experiences with other brain injury survivors helps them is a great feeling. I wish I had that support when I first started out on my journey. 

“Most of all, I just love helping people.” 

Romford Recorder: Dean going up to accept his award at the ceremony on December 9 at the Landmark Hotel in LondonDean going up to accept his award at the ceremony on December 9 at the Landmark Hotel in London (Image: Headway)

Natalie Clapshaw, director of development and casework manager at Headway East London, nominated Dean for the award. She said Dean “really does bring a sense of hope and energy to everyone he meets”.  

Luke Griggs, Headway’s chief executive, added: “Dean’s unwavering dedication to Headway and helping others similarly affected by brain injury is nothing short of exceptional.  

“Despite his own challenges, Dean has worked tirelessly to secure support for others and to give them the help he never got. 

“Dean is such an inspiration to us all. His generous spirit, selfless drive and compassionate heart make him a very deserving winner of this award.”